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Abstract
mortality in patients presenting with Necrotizing Fasciitis.
Methods: In this descriptive study, patients with
Necrotizing Fasciitis were included. After resuscitation,
the patients underwent emergency exploration and
aggressive surgical debridement. Post-operatively, the
patients were managed with broad spectrum antibiotics
and serial debridements. Patients who recovered with
extensive skin loss underwent skin grafting subsequently
with follow-up for 6 months to assess morbidity.
Results: Twenty patients with Necrotizing Fasciitis were
admitted during study period. Mean age was 57.4 years.
Fever, painful swelling, redness, presence of
bullae/blistering, skin necrosis and foul smelling
discharge were the main clinical findings. Diabetes
Mellitus (DM) was the commonest predisposing factor.
Sepsis (70%) was the commonest complication. The overall
mortality rate was 30% however the most common cause of
death was acute Myocardial Infarction (MI). Partial
thickness skin grafting was required in 50%. Muscle
contractures were noted in 40% patients.
Conclusion: Necrotizing Fasciitis, a rare but life
threatening condition carries a definite mortality rate. The
risk factors for mortality are missed diagnosis, old age,
diabetes mellitus and late presentation.