What is a sequestrum?

A sequestrum is defined as a piece of dead bone that forms as a result of infection, often associated with osteomyelitis. When bone tissue becomes infected, the body’s immune response may not be able to eradicate the infection, leading to tissue necrosis. The infected and necrotic area can become isolated from the surrounding healthy bone usually due to the formation of new viable bone around it, which can encapsulate the necrotic segment, causing a sequestrum.

The presence of a sequestrum can complicate treatment, as the dead bone may provide a focus for ongoing infection. Therefore, recognizing and addressing a sequestrum is crucial in surgical procedures related to bone infections. Understanding the formation, implications, and treatment of a sequestrum is an essential part of surgical care in cases of chronic bone infections.