The Double-Edged Graft: Osteomyelitis Triggered by Bone Substitutes - A Case Series

The uncommon but dangerous possibility of persistent osteomyelitis associated with synthetic bone graft substitutes is examined in this case series. Two example cases were analyzed using this method: a tibial tumor defect filled with calcium phosphate and a calcaneal fracture treated with calcium sulfate, both of which experienced chronic infections following indolent courses. The primary outcome was that to successfully eradicate the infection, both patients required extensive debridement to remove the biomaterial and diseased bone, followed by IV antibiotics and restoration. In order to ensure timely diagnosis and aggressive management, the conclusion emphasizes the importance of careful technique, appropriate patient selection, and a high index of suspicion for any persistent symptoms. These synthetic materials are valuable, but they can also act as a foreign body nidus for infection.