Bacteria or fungal organisms may cause infection in the vertebral column, the intervertebral discs, the dural sac, or in the space around the spinal cord. Despite the numerous preventative measures that are followed, infections do occur in approximately 4-10 percent of all surgical cases.
Symptoms
- Pain
- Redness, swelling and tenderness near incision site
Causes
- Bacteria or fungal organisms may cause infection in the vertebral column, the intervertebral discs, the dural sac, or in the space around the spinal cord.
Risk Factors
- Recent surgery (3 days to 3 months)
- Immunosuppression
- Poor Nutrition
- HIV infection
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Tobacco usage
- Cancer
- Lengthy surgical procedures
- Reoperations
- Surgical instrumentation
Diagnosis
- Your doctor will discuss your symptoms, review your medical history, and perform a thorough physical examination.
- Laboratory tests
- Imaging: CT Scan and MRI
Treatment
- Antibiotic or antifungal medications are the first choice in nonoperative management of some spinal infections. The location and severity of the infection along with the type of organisms causing the infection will determine the type and duration of the treatment.
- The antibiotics or antifungal medications may be delivered orally or intravenously with the aid of an IV line. The treatment may be as short as seven to ten days or longer (six to twelve weeks) depending on the nature and severity of the infection.
- In some cases, the patient may require the placement of a special intravenous (central) line for the delivery of medications. Home administration, with the assistance of a visiting nurse, is sometimes advised. In addition, the doctor may prescribe a brace to support the spine throughout the healing process. This support will also help provide relief from pain.
- In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to wash and clean away the bacteria and infected tissue. If evidence of spine instability is present, surgery may also be required to stabilize the spine. In addition, if neurologic deterioration occur as the result of a spinal infection, surgery may be advised to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord.
