Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 18, 2026
Surgical Approach and Complications of Stand-alone Lateral Trans-Psoas Interbody Fusion
Published on: February 14, 2025
Postoperative synergistic gangrene after spinal fusion
C P Kauffman1, C M Bono, P P Vessa
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, New Jersey Medical School, UMDNJ-Newark, New Jersey 07103, USA.
Study Design:
A case of synergistic necrotizing gangrenous fasciitis after spinal surgery is reported.
Objectives:
To describe this unusual complication, explain the rationale of treatment, and increase awareness of this serious postoperative complication.
Summary Of Background Data:
Although several cases of postoperative synergistic necrotizing fasciitis have been reported, there are no previously reported cases of this condition after spinal surgery.
Methods:
A rapidly progressive necrotizing spinal wound infection after fusion for degenerative disc disease was treated in a 39-year-old man.
Results:
The infection was successfully treated with serial debridements, appropriate antibiotics, and hyperbaric wound oxygenation.
Conclusions:
The authors suggest adherence to the fundamental principles of treatment including radical surgical debridement and appropriate antibiosis for necrotizing gangrene after spinal surgery. In evaluation of aggressive spinal wound infections, diagnosis of synergistic necrotizing fasciitis should be kept in mind. Although hyperbaric wound oxygenation was implemented as an adjunct and appeared to aid in controlling the infection, its effect on outcome is not clear.
