Management of Cervical Necrotizing Fasciitis

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Cervical necrotizing fasciitis (CNF) is a rare but potentially life-threatening soft tissue infection primarily affecting the superficial fascial planes. The purpose of this study was to report various causes, courses of the disease, and outcomes of treatment. Subjects and Method: A retrospective chart review of 12 cases treated between January 2000 and January 2004 was done. All of them were studied with CT scan and treated with intravenous antibiotics. We discussed histories, diagnostic points and treatment of each cases, and analyzed them. Results: There were 9 male and 3 female patients. The age distribution was from 17 to 81 years. Three patients had diabetes mellitus, one patient was a heavy alcoholics, and one patient had Buerger’s disease. Two patients were expired due to lung abscess and sepsis, but others were discharged with no complication. Wide debridement was performed in all cases. Wound reconstruction was done in two patients. Conclusion: Treatment consists of early diagnosis, aggressive surgical debridement and drainage of the involved necrotic fascia and tissue along with broadspectrum intravenous antibiotics coverage.