Neonatal Vertebral Osteomyelitis: Case Report and Literature Review
Abstract
Neonatal vertebral osteomyelitis is a severe and extremely rare condition that is challenging to treat and rarely requires open surgery during the acute phase. We present a case of a 25-day-old neonate who was admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit due to a respiratory infection with poor progression and no response to conventional treatment. The patient subsequently developed lower cervical and upper thoracic spondylodiscitis, with progressive deterioration and worsening general condition. Open surgicaldebridement and anterior reconstruction were performed, along with prolonged sequential antibiotic therapy (intravenous to oral). In selected cases, neonatal vertebral osteomyelitis may require open surgical treatment for the resolution of acute infection. However, this approach does not eliminate the risk of residual deformities.Downloads
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