A Case Report of Osteomyelitis of Lower End of Tibia and Fibula as a Complication of Elastic Rubber Band Syndrome (Dhaga Syndrome)

INTRODUCTION: Rubber band syndrome is a rare acquired condition poorly discussed in literature, when neglected can lead to devastating complications of compartment syndrome and infection of soft tissue and bone as seen in the present case. Rubber band or Dhaga (sacred thread) when worn for prolonged duration can bury into the skin and soft tissue. CASE REPORT: A 12-month-old girl developed osteomyelitis of tibia and fibula as sequelae of misdiagnosis and treatment for this syndrome. Assuming it to be a simple constriction band, incisions were given on medial and lateral aspect of the ankle, later she developed osteomyelitis of the tibia and fibula with in buried rubber band, which was removed and thorough curettage done and achieved good healing of the bones. CONCLUSION: Rubber band syndrome in not an uncommon condition, but when neglected or misdiagnosed can lead to complications such as compartment syndrome and osteomyelitis of the bones in involved limb as seen in this case. In suspected cases, imaging with sonography and X-ray of involved helps in diagnosis.