First report of successful treatment of chronic pediatric tibial osteomyelitis and fracture using autologous platelet-rich plasma

Abstract

Osteomyelitis is a refractory disease caused by microbial invasion of the bone, leading to destruction of the bone tissue. It is more common in children. Osteomyelitis requires long treatment at high cost and is associated with high rates of recurrence and disability. It can also be complicated by sepsis that, if not treated in time, can result in death. Here, we report the first case of a 10-year-old patient who presented with chronic tibial osteomyelitis complicated with fracture. The patient had received traditional treatment for osteomyelitis for over 14 months without success. However, after 4 months of treatment with autologous platelet-rich plasma, the fracture, infection, and osteomyelitis resolved completely. These clinical observations demonstrate the potential for using autologous platelet-rich plasma as a novel treatment for chronic pediatric osteomyelitis.

Keywords: Children; Fracture; Osteomyelitis; Platelet-rich plasma; Treatment.