Spontaneous Spondylodiscitis: Conservative Versus Surgical Management

Abstract
Background: The incidence of spontaneous spondylodis-citis is increasing per year and this attributed to an aging population, increasing prevalence of immunodeficiency and improving radiological technique.
Aim of Study: To evaluate the results of conservative versus surgical treatment of spondylodiscitis as regard efficacy, complications and functional outcomes.
Patients and Methods: This is a prospective randomized clinical trial study included 16 patients with spontaneous spondylodiscitis presented only with axial spinal pain. They were divided into 2 groups: One managed conservatively and the other surgically.
Results: 9 patients were managed conservatively and 7 were managed surgically. After complete course of treatment; only 3 patients of conservative group and 4 patients of surgical group showed fusion assessed by imaging. There was no significant statistically difference between two groups in final clinical outcome using visual analogue scale and MacNab's outcome criteria.
Conclusion: Both conservative and surgical methods are sufficient for achieving the goals of treatment of spontaneous spondylodiscitis as both are safe, feasible, and effective procedure in relieving pain.