Bone infection, or osteomyelitis, can be one of the most difficult problems confronted by the orthopaedic surgeon. Common causes of osteomyelitis include open fractures, hematogenous spread of bacteria to bone, and orthopaedic surgical procedures complicated by infection. Assessment involves identification of the offending organism by tissue culture and sensitivity to antibiotics; radiographic assessment of the extent of the infection; clinical evaluation of the patient's general health and ability to fight infection; and determination of the local anatomic condition of the bone and soft tissue