Reamer–Irrigator–Aspirator Multiuse Application in the Treatment of Chronic Osteomyelitis

INTRODUCTION: The treatment of chronic intramedullary infection of the long bones relies on microbe-specific antibiotics in conjunction with surgical removal of infected necrotic material. We discuss the use of reamer–irrigator–aspirator(RIA) for debridement of the intramedullary canal instead of conventional reaming techniques. This is the first case report to explore the use of RIA for osteomyelitis. CASE REPORT: We discuss the use of the RIA in treatment of a 26-year-old female presenting with chronic osteomyelitis of the left distal femoral shaft. She had normalization of infection laboratories at 6 weeks and complete resolution of symptoms at 3 months and was released at 6 months. CONCLUSION: Recent exploration of the RIA system’s (Synthes®, Inc. West Chester, Philadelphia) multipurpose applications has indicated use in long bone debridement. While further exploration and high-quality studies are needed to make robust claims of efficacy, we believe that the use of RIA in the context of chronic osteomyelitis is a superior alternative to conventional reaming techniques.