A rationale for adjuvant surgical intervention in pyoderma gangrenosum

Medical specialists who care for patients with pyoderma gangrenosum have been reluctant traditionally to consult plastic surgeons. This is the result of previous negative experience with debridement and skin grafting. However, a new understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease process, and better therapeutic options for control have emerged. Very few studies report the results of surgical therapy of this disease, and fewer yet report successful outcome. The authors present their limited experience at the American University of Beirut with 4 patients who were controlled medically followed by skin grafting their large wounds, thus decreasing their morbidity and hospital stay. A review of the literature together with insights on the rationale and timing of surgery in this particular small group of patients are discussed.