OVERVIEW

Chronic fracture-related infection (CFRI) is a complex and challenging condition that arises when a fracture, whether recent or from the past, becomes infected and persists over an extended period. This condition poses significant risks to the affected individual's overall health and can lead to severe complications if not properly managed. Dr Jason du Plessis specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of CFRI, employing both conservative and surgical approaches to ensure the best possible outcomes for his patients.

Types of chronic fracture-related infection:

CFRI can manifest in various forms, each presenting unique challenges for treatment. The primary types of CFRI include:

1. Superficial infections: Infections limited to the skin and soft tissues around the fracture
2. Deep infections: Infections that penetrate deeper into the bone, potentially leading to
3. Biofilm-related infections: Bacterial biofilms, resilient colonies of microorganisms, can form on implants or fracture sites, complicating treatment.
4. Late-onset infections: Infections that develop weeks or even months after the initial fracture, posing diagnostic challenges.

Causes of chronic fracture-related infection:

Several factors contribute to the development of CFRI:

1. Initial trauma: The severity of the initial fracture and the trauma sustained can influence the risk of subsequent infection.
2. Open fractures: Fractures that break the skin increase the risk of bacterial entry, leading to
3. Implant-related factors: The presence of hardware such as screws or plates can contribute to infection, especially if not properly placed or if biofilm forms.
4. Poor blood supply: Inadequate blood flow to the fractured area can impede the body's natural ability to fight off