Management and outcome of infectious spondylodiscitis in patients with and without neurological deficit: A prospective study

Introduction: The term Infectious Spondylodiscitis involves infection of the vertebra and infection of the intervertebral disc, or both. Any delay in its diagnosis or management may cause serious long-term morbidity and mortality. In this study, we report the experiences in our Institution in the management of severe and complicated cases of infectious spondylodiscitis.

Materials and methods: Over the period of 2 years from 2020- 2022 (covid-19) 40 patients were operated in our medical college. The management was tailored according to the clinical condition based on VAS, ODI, radiological studies and lab results of each case; and patients were then prospectively followed-up for 2 years. Results: The goals of treatment for spondylodiscitis is to relieve pain, restore pain free mobilization of the patient and to eliminate infection. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) was considered the main choice of investigating tool other assessments were done by ODI, VAS, Neurologic deficits was assessed by Modified McCormick scale, sepsis, an intraspinal empyema, the failure of conservative treatment, and spinal instability are all indications for surgical treatment.

Conclusion: The quality of life of patients who have been appropriately treated for infectious spondylodiscitis has been found to be highly satisfactory in general. The risk of recurrence increases in the presence of accompanying illnesses such as diabetes mellitus, renal failure, which were managed by immediate debridement and results were good which was assessed according to above mentioned post-op ODI and VAS.