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Updated: May 5, 2026
06:05
Modified Radical Neck Dissection for Cervical Metastasis
Published on: February 20, 2026
242
[Necrotizing fasciitis of the neck]
Marijan Kovacić1, Ivan Kovacić, Boris Delalija
1Odjel za otorinolaringologiju, Odjel za kirurgiju, Opća bolnica Zadar, Zadar, Hrvatska. mar.kova@yahoo.com
Acta Medica Croatica : Casopis Hravatske Akademije Medicinskih Znanosti
|November 28, 2013
Summary
Necrotizing fasciitis in the neck is a severe infection requiring prompt treatment. Early diagnosis, surgical debridement, antibiotics, and IV immunoglobulin therapy significantly improve outcomes, with a low mortality rate in this study.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Pathology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare, aggressive infection affecting fascia and skin.
- Cervical necrotizing fasciitis is uncommon but potentially fatal.
- Comorbidities are frequent in affected patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review cases of cervical necrotizing fasciitis.
- To analyze treatment strategies and outcomes.
- To highlight the importance of early intervention.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 15 patients with cervical necrotizing fasciitis.
- Analysis of clinical presentation, comorbidities, and treatment.
- Inclusion of computed tomography (CT) imaging, surgical debridement, antibiotics, and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy.
Main Results:
- Mean patient age was 54.7 years, with common comorbidities.
- Five patients developed descending necrotizing mediastinitis; three had toxic shock syndrome.
- Mortality rate was 6.7% (1/15), with successful outcomes from combined therapies.
Conclusions:
- Early diagnosis and prompt surgical debridement are crucial.
- Broad-spectrum antibiotics and IVIG are vital for unstable patients.
- Timely intervention in cervical necrotizing fasciitis can reduce mortality.
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