Contaminated bone grafts and tuberculosis in three spine surgery patients: a case series

Authors

  • Mustafa Naveed College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kansas City University, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
  • Tiffany Ruan College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kansas City University, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
  • Vishakha Sharma College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kansas City University, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
  • Hon Vien Department of Orthopedics and Spine, Reid Health, Richmond, Indiana, USA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/issn.2455-4510.IntJResOrthop20232831

Keywords:

Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Bone graft, Lumbar interbody fusion, Contamination, Spinal surgery, Infection, Risk management

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) is a global health issue affecting millions of people every year. Previous articles displayed cases of TB resulting from contaminated bone grafts used in spinal surgeries. However, deeper understanding about the serious health consequences for patients affected by TB-infected bone grafts is lacking. Here, we discuss three unique patients who contracted TB after undergoing lumbar spinal surgery. We describe three patient cases in which individuals initially presented with back pain, underwent required lumbar spinal fusion surgery with bone graft implants, and, afterwards, contracted TB. All patients were given RIPE therapy, had additional surgery to remove the faulty hardware, and lived with significant and prolonged pain. In addition, patient X experienced night sweats, patient Y had a subcutaneous abscess positive for TB, and patient Z had severe burning pain, rash, and sweats. Altogether, we emphasize the importance of increasing our awareness about the potential risks and complications associated with utilizing contaminated surgical products. We encourage healthcare professionals to take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their patients by screening bone grafts for potential pathogens and practicing proper sterilization techniques.

 

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Published

2023-09-05

How to Cite

Naveed, M., Ruan, T., Sharma, V., & Vien, H. (2023). Contaminated bone grafts and tuberculosis in three spine surgery patients: a case series. International Journal of Research in Orthopaedics, 9(6), 1247–1253. https://doi.org/10.18203/issn.2455-4510.IntJResOrthop20232831