Osteomyelitis, which was formerly thought to be incurable, may now be effectively treated. The majority of patients require surgery to remove dead bone regions. Strong intravenous antibiotics are usually required after surgery.... Patients who do not have surgery can be given antibiotics through a needle inserted into a vein or muscle. These medications are called IV antibiotics. Infection of the bone that is not treated can lead to amputation. This is because at this stage there is no way to cure the infection and prevent it from coming back. Infected bone that is removed will usually heal without problems. A repeat episode of infection may occur but this can be prevented by following proper dental hygiene techniques.