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Four cases of aggressive MRSA wound infection following head and neck surgery
M Parton1, N J Beasley, G Harvey
1Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, University of Liverpool, UK.
Abstract:
Four cases of serious MRSA wound infection following head and neck surgery have been identified. One patient died. At post mortem a mediastinal abscess containing MRSA was found to have eroded into the innominate artery causing fatal haemorrhage. The other three suffered serious wound infections, two requiring further surgery. Once MRSA had been identified they were treated with intravenous teicoplanin and all made a full recovery.
Insights
Serious MRSA wound infections after head and neck surgery can be fatal. Prompt identification and treatment with teicoplanin led to full recovery in three patients.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Infections
- Medical Microbiology
Background:
- Head and neck surgery carries risks of post-operative complications.
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant pathogen in healthcare settings.
- Wound infections can lead to severe morbidity and mortality.
Observation:
- Four cases of severe MRSA wound infections were identified post-head and neck surgery.
- One patient experienced a fatal hemorrhage due to a mediastinal abscess eroding into the innominate artery.
- Three other patients developed serious wound infections, with two requiring additional surgical intervention.
Findings:
- MRSA was confirmed as the causative agent in all four cases.
- Intravenous teicoplanin was administered once MRSA was identified.
- All three surviving patients achieved full recovery following teicoplanin treatment.
Implications:
- Highlights the critical need for vigilance regarding MRSA in head and neck surgical patients.
- Demonstrates the efficacy of teicoplanin in treating severe MRSA wound infections.
- Underscores the potential for life-threatening complications, including fatal hemorrhage, from post-surgical MRSA infections.