Spinal Infections

Understanding the Condition & Finding Lasting Relief

What Is a Spinal Infection?

A spinal infection occurs when bacteria, fungi, or other pathogens invade the spine, leading to inflammation and potential damage to the vertebrae, spinal discs, or surrounding tissues.

Infections of the spine can be serious and may require urgent medical attention to prevent complications such as spinal instability, neurological damage, or sepsis.

Common types of spinal infections include: vertebral osteomyelitis, discitis, epidural abscess and postoperative spinal infections.

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent permanent spinal damage or systemic complications.

How Spinal Infections Impact Your Life

Without prompt treatment, spinal infections can lead to:

  • Chronic pain and mobility issues – Damage to the vertebrae or discs can cause ongoing pain and stiffness.

  • Spinal deformity or instability – Severe infections can weaken spinal structures, leading to deformities such as kyphosis.

  • Neurological damage – If the infection compresses the spinal cord, it may result in permanent nerve damage.

  • Sepsis and life-threatening complications – Untreated spinal infections can spread to other organs, leading to systemic infection.

Common Causes of Spinal Infections

  • Bloodstream Infections


    Bacteria or fungi enter the bloodstream and spread to the spine from infections elsewhere in the body.

  • Post-Surgical or Post-Traumatic Infection


    Infections may occur after spinal surgery, injections, or spinal trauma.

  • Weakened Immune System


    Conditions like diabetes, HIV, cancer, or immunosuppressive treatments can increase the risk of infection.

  • Intravenous Drug Use


    IV drug use can introduce bacteria into the bloodstream, increasing the risk of spinal infections.

  • Direct Spread from Nearby Infections

     
    Infections such as urinary tract infections, pneumonia, or skin infections can spread to the spine.

How Mr Gordan Grahovac Can Help

As a Consultant Neurosurgeon & Complex Spinal Surgeon, Mr Grahovac specialises in diagnosing and treating spinal infections. He provides expert care, from conservative treatment to advanced surgical intervention, ensuring optimal recovery while preserving spinal stability and neurological function.

To accurately diagnose a spinal infection, Mr Grahovac may perform:

  1. Medical History & Physical Examination – Evaluating symptoms, risk factors, and neurological status.

  2. Blood Tests (Inflammatory Markers & Cultures) – Detecting infection through elevated C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and white blood cell count (WBC).

  3. MRI with Contrast – The most effective imaging tool for identifying infection and assessing spinal cord involvement.

  4. CT Scan & Bone Biopsy – Used when MRI is inconclusive or to confirm the presence of osteomyelitis or abscesses.

  5. Spinal Fluid or Blood Cultures – Identifying the causative pathogen for targeted antibiotic therapy.

His Diagnostic Process:

Treatment Options for Spinal Infections

Mr Grahovac takes a multidisciplinary, patient-centred approach, providing a combination of medical, minimally invasive, and surgical treatments depending on the severity of the infection.

    • Bed Rest & Limited Movement – Reducing strain on the spine during acute infection.

    • Pain Management Strategies – Includes anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, and targeted pain relief techniques.

    • Nutrition & Hydration – Supporting immune function and recovery with proper dietary adjustments.

    • Antibiotic or Antifungal Therapy – Long-term intravenous (IV) or oral antibiotics are required to treat bacterial infections. Fungal infections may require prolonged antifungal treatment.

    • Bracing (For Certain Cases) – Temporary use of spinal braces to stabilise the spine while healing.

    • Epidural Corticosteroid Injections – For pain relief if nerve inflammation occurs.

  • For severe infections, surgical intervention may be required to remove infected tissue, stabilise the spine, or prevent further complications.

    Mr Grahovac utilises the latest surgical techniques, including minimally invasive spinal stabilisation, to ensure the best possible outcomes with faster recovery times.

What Patients Are Saying

Frequently Asked Questions: Spinal Infections

  • Spinal infections often cause persistent back pain, fever, stiffness, and neurological symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking. The pain may not improve with rest and can worsen over time.

  • Yes. Many spinal infections can be treated with antibiotics, antifungal medication, and bed rest. However, if the infection causes spinal instability, abscess formation, or nerve compression, surgery may be required.

    • Antibiotic treatment – Typically lasts 6–12 weeks, depending on severity.

    • Non-surgical recovery – May take several months for complete healing.

    • Surgical recovery – If surgery is needed, recovery can take 3–6 months, depending on the procedure.

  • If left untreated, spinal infections can lead to sepsis, spinal cord damage, or paralysis. Early treatment is essential to prevent severe complications.

  • Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

    • Severe back pain with fever or chills.

    • Sudden weakness, numbness, or paralysis.

    • Loss of bladder or bowel control.

Take the First Step Towards Relief

A spinal infection doesn’t have to limit your life. Whether you need conservative treatment or advanced spinal surgery, Mr Gordan Grahovac is here to help.

Book a consultation today and start your journey towards lasting relief.