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Postoperative necrotizing fasciitis in children.
L D Farrell1, S R Karl, P K Davis
1Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, College of Medicine of the Pennsylvania State University, Hershey.
Pediatrics
|December 1, 1988
Summary
Necrotizing fasciitis is a severe, fast-spreading infection after surgery in children. Prompt surgical debridement and antibiotics are crucial for survival, as the mortality rate remains high.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
- Wound Healing
Background:
- Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare, life-threatening soft tissue infection.
- It can be a serious postoperative complication in children.
Observation:
- This review analyzes 11 pediatric cases of necrotizing fasciitis post-surgery.
- Patients ranged from 6 days to 15 years old.
- Infections often originated in the abdominal wall.
Findings:
- Common symptoms included neutropenia, fever, and tachycardia.
- Bacterial cultures were frequently positive, often polymicrobial.
- The mortality rate was 45%, with positive blood cultures in non-survivors.
Implications:
- Early recognition and aggressive surgical intervention are vital.
- Broad-spectrum antibiotics are essential for treatment.
- Further research into preventative strategies may improve outcomes.