[Therapeutic factors affecting the healing process in patients with gangrene of the perineum]

Fournier gangrene is a rare and severe necrotizing fasciitis. It is burdened with high morbi-mortality, requiring early and massive medical and surgical management. Initial treatment is based on patient's resuscitation associated with surgical debridement. Subsequently, the main challenge is the healing process and its possible sequelae. Several therapeutic approaches are currently available to improve and accelerate the healing process. We conducted a retrospective study of 20 cases. The median age of our patients was 56 years. The study included 16 men and 7 women. Comorbidity was present in 15 patients. Antibiotic therapy was administered in all cases, with a median duration of 15 days. All patients underwent surgery. Iterative reviews were necessary in all patients, who needed, on average, 3 dressing changes. Colostomy was performed in 6 cases. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy was performed in 4 cases. Vacuum assisted closure was performed in 1 case. Soft tissue coverage was necessary in 2 cases. The mean duration of healing was 15 days with oxygen therapy versus 24 days in the absence of this treatment. The mean duration of hospitalization was 20 days. Four patients died. Healing process without sequelae is a therapeutic challenge. Despite the addition of new therapeutic approaches, outcomes are not satisfactory. However, multidisciplinary approach associated with oxygen therapy and vacuum assisted closure might improve patients outcomes.