Recurring osteomyelitis
The underlying factors that often cause osteomyelitis, such as poor circulation or a weakened immune system, can be difficult to treat, particularly if you have severe diabetes or HIV. Therefore, if you have had a previous episode of osteomyelitis, there is a chance that it could return.
The risk factors for recurring osteomyelitis vary depending on your circumstances. It may be possible to reduce your risk by making lifestyle changes, such as lowering the amount of saturated fat in your diet and by taking precautions against infection. See Osteomyelitis - prevention for more information.
Amputation
Amputation is sometimes necessary when someone has a condition, such as diabetes or peripheral vascular disease, that affects the normal blood supply to parts of their body. With a reduced blood supply, the affected body part will receive fewer infection-fighting blood cells. This means that the infection may spread beyond the bone and into the surrounding soft tissue. The tissue will then begin to die, which is known as gangrene.
Once gangrene develops, it is sometimes necessary to amputate the affected limb to prevent the spread of infection and prevent further damage to healthy tissue.
See the Health A-Z topics about Amputation and Gangrene for more information.
