Spinal Infection

Spinal infections are serious conditions affecting the spine’s vertebrae, discs and the spinal canal. A spinal infection involves inflammation or infection within the spinal structures, such as osteomyelitis, discitis and epidural abscesses. These conditions are serious and require immediate medical attention to manage effectively.

Symptoms Of Spinal Infection

Severe back pain that does not improve with rest

This is pain that typically localised at the fracture site and exacerbated by movement or pressure.

Fever

As pain and stiffness in the affected area restrict normal movement, your range of motion may suffer as a result.

Chills

Muscle weakness can often present as reduced strength in the affected muscles due to nerve compression or irritation.

Neurological deficits such as numbness or weakness

Pain that worsens with movement, as physical activity increases mechanical stress on the spine and further compresses irritated nerves.

Causes

Spinal infections may arise from various sources, including bacterial or fungal spread through the bloodstream, direct contamination during surgical procedures or trauma. A detailed medical evaluation is essential to determine specific causes, guided by the patient’s medical history.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing spinal infections typically involves a combination of reviewing medical history, physical examinations, blood tests for infection markers and imaging tests like MRI or CT scans. Biopsies may also be necessary to accurately identify the infection.

Spinal Infection Treatment In Singapore

Our approach to spinal infection treatment involves comprehensive assessment and evaluation, after which a customised treatment plan will be created.

medication

Antibiotics or antifungal medications which may be administered orally or intravenously depending on severity of the infection.

Surgery

In some cases, surgical intervention might be necessary to remove infected tissue or alleviate pressure on the spinal cord.

FAQs on Spinal Infection

If left untreated, spinal infections can lead to severe complications such as chronic pain, abscess formation and permanent neurological damage. Prompt and effective treatment is essential to prevent these serious outcomes.

The recovery period for spinal infections can vary, typically requiring several weeks to months of treatment, depending on the infection's severity and the patient’s overall health.

Hospitalisation may be necessary for severe spinal infections, especially if intravenous treatments or surgery are required. The need for hospitalisation is assessed based on the severity of the infection and associated symptoms.

Prevention strategies include minimising invasive procedures, maintaining excellent hygiene and effectively managing chronic health conditions to prevent infection risks. Ensuring sterile conditions during surgical procedures is also crucial.

If a spinal infection is suspected, it is critical to seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing the condition effectively and achieving the best possible outcomes.
Our Specialist

About Gamaliel Tan

MBBS (S'pore), MMED (S'pore), FAMS (Ortho), FRCS (Edin)

Dr Gamaliel Tan is a spine surgeon in Singapore with over 25 years of experience in designing and providing effective solutions for different orthopaedic problems. He specialises in spine surgery and has experience in endoscopic spine surgery and motion preservation spine procedures (artificial disc replacements).

Qualifications and Achievements
  • Head of Department, Department of Orthopaedics | NTFGH 2009 - 2018
  • Council member of the AOSpine East Asia group 2017 – 2020
  • Head of the Spine Division | NTFGH 2009 - 2023
  • Group Chief Medical Informatics Officer (GCMIO) | NUHS 2020-2023

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    If you suspect a spine fracture due to symptoms such as severe back pain or limited mobility, it is recommended that you consult a healthcare professional promptly.

    For further information or to schedule a consultation, contact us today at tel: +65 6235 8755 (Orchard) or +65 6334 0622 (Novena).

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