Análise epidemiológica das hospitalizações por osteomielite no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul entre 2015 e 2024

Abstract

Osteomyelitis is a complex bone infection requiring prolonged and multidisciplinary treatment, generating significant socioeconomic impacts and high costs for the healthcare system. In Rio Grande do Sul, the epidemiological profile of the disease remains poorly understood, hindering the formulation of targeted public policies. Objective: To analyze the epidemiological profile and financial impact of osteomyelitis hospitalizations in Rio Grande do Sul between 2015 and 2024. Methodology: A descriptive, ecological, and quantitative study using secondary data from the Hospital Information System (SIH/SUS). Variables such as sex, age group, macro-region, case-fatality rate, and hospital costs were analyzed. Results: There were 7,271 hospitalizations in the period, with a predominance of males (68.8%) and the white race (81.3%). The total cost of hospitalizations exceeded R$ 8.3 million. The overall case-fatality rate was 1.72%, peaking at 2.92% in 2021, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic. Critical vulnerability was observed in the elderly population, with lethality reaching 9.15% in the 80+ age group. The Metropolitan Macro-region concentrated the highest volume of cases (38.1%), while the Central-West region had the highest average length of stay (12 days). Conclusion: Osteomyelitis imposes a high burden on the state. The disparity between decreased hospitalizations and increased mortality during the pandemic suggests that healthcare delays worsened the prognosis. Policies aimed at early diagnosis and specialized management, especially for the elderly, are essential to optimize SUS resources.