DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sasjs.2025.v11i02.028

Pages: 244-249

Background: Postoperative discitis is a rare but serious complication following spinal surgery, characterized by infection and inflammation of the intervertebral disc space. It often presents with back pain, fever, and neurological deficits, necessitating prompt diagnosis and management. While conservative treatments are standard, surgical intervention is considered in severe cases. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of surgical management in postoperative discitis. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, East West Medical College & Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2022 to July 2024. A total of 47 patients, regardless of age or gender, diagnosed with post-operative discitis and treated at the mentioned hospital were enrolled in the study through purposive sampling. Demographic and clinical data were collected and analyzed using MS Office tools. Results: The largest group of patients (40.4%) was aged 31-40 years, with 66% being male. All patients experienced persistent pain and neurological deficits. Over half (62.7%) had unipolar diathermy burns as a perioperative complication. The most common cultured organisms were Escherichia coli (23.4%), Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (19.1%), and Methicillin-susceptible staphylococcus aureus (17%). According to the modified Kirkaldy-Willis criteria, outcomes were Excellent in 34.0%, Good in 42.6%, Fair in 19.1%, and Poor in 4.3%. Conclusion: Unipolar diathermy burn is a very common procedural challenge in managing postoperative discitis by surgical intervention. Escherichia coli (23.4%), Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (19.1%), and Methicillin-susceptible staphylococcus aureus are the most common causative organisms for postoperative discitis. Early diagnosis and intervention are the key to effective management of such discitis.