Episode 204: Necrotizing Fasciitis

We discuss the recognition and treatment of necrotizing fasciitis.

Hosts:
Aurnee Rahman, MD
Brian Gilberti, MD

Download Leave a Comment Tags: Critical Care, General Surgery

Show Notes

Table of Contents

0:00 – Introduction

0:41 – Overview

1:10 – Types of Necrotizing Fasciitis

2:21 – Pathophysiology & Risk Factors

3:16 – Clinical Presentation

4:06 – Diagnosis

5:37 – Treatment

7:09 – Prognosis and Recovery

7:37 – Take Home points

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Introduction

• Necrotizing soft tissue infections can be easily missed in routine cases of soft tissue infection.
• High mortality and morbidity underscore the need for vigilance.

Definition

• A rapidly progressive, life-threatening infection of the deep soft tissues.
• Involves fascia and subcutaneous fat, causing fulminant tissue destruction.
• High mortality often due to delayed recognition and treatment.

Types of Necrotizing Fasciitis

• Type I (Polymicrobial)
  • Involves aerobic and anaerobic organisms (e.g., Bacteroides, Clostridium, Peptostreptococcus).