Pediatric update #8. Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis in children. Long-term results of surgical treatment.

A retrospective review (1970-1982) of the clinical experience of 68 children with acute hematogenous osteomyelitis (AHO) is presented. Analysis of the epidemiologic, clinical, laboratory, radiologic and bacteriologic findings is made. Our series was treated mainly by an aggressive primary surgical protocol which is described in detail. Seventeen percent developed chronic osteomyelitis. The role of surgery in the treatment of AHO is discussed. It is our belief that surgical treatment has definite advantages over the conservative regime and it remains our treatment of choice.