Hematogenous osteomyelitis in children.

Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis is the formation of pus within bone. Bone destruction and spread of the infection to contiguous areas may be rapid and significantly alter the prognosis and potential for complications. Bacteriologic isolation of the infecting organism is essential to determine the appropriate antibiotic to be used. Mechanical removal of pus is necessary for optimal antibiotic function. Surgical decompression should be performed if aspiration reveals pus or if roentgenograms show evidence of bone destruction.