American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) Orthopedic Practice Test

Which surgical procedures are typically performed for chronic osteomyelitis?

1. Bone grafting and fusion

2. Sequestrectomy and saucerization

3. Reduction and immobilization

4. Debridement and arthroplasty

The correct answer is: Sequestrectomy and saucerization

Chronic osteomyelitis, which is a persistent bone infection typically caused by bacteria, often requires more targeted surgical interventions to remove infected bone and promote healing. Among the options provided, sequestrectomy and saucerization are specifically designed to address the presence of dead or necrotic bone—known as sequestrum—common in chronic osteomyelitis cases. Sequestrectomy involves surgically removing the sequestrum to eliminate the source of infection and allow healthy bone tissue to regenerate. Saucerization is a technique where a cavity created by the infection is surgically shaped to promote drainage and healing. Together, these procedures aim to facilitate the recovery of the bone while effectively managing the infection, making them highly appropriate for treating chronic osteomyelitis. Other options listed, while relevant to various orthopedic conditions, do not specifically target the primary issue presented in chronic osteomyelitis. For example, bone grafting and fusion are more suited for addressing instability or defects after a fracture, while reduction and immobilization pertain to joint injuries. Debridement and arthroplasty are general terms that could apply to joint infections but do not directly address the chronic bone infection scenario presented in osteomyelitis like sequestrectomy