In:
Reviews on Recent Clinical Trials, Bentham Science Publishers Ltd., Vol. 17, No. 1 ( 2022-02), p. 46-52
Abstract:
Deep Neck Infections (DNIs) spread along fascial planes and involve
neck spaces. Recently, their incidence has decreased due to the introduction of antibiotics; nevertheless, complications related to DNIs are often life-threatening. Objective: The purpose of this article is focused on the identification of predisposing factors of these
complications, as well as on the development of a reliable therapeutic algorithm. Method: Sixty patients with DNIs were enrolled from 2006 to 2019 for a retrospective study. The
exclusion criteria for the present study were cellulitis, small abscesses responding to empiric or specific antibiotic therapy, or involvement of only one deep neck space. During the analysis, the following
parameters of interest have been evaluated: gender, age, site of origin, pathways of spread, comorbidities, clinical features, bacteriology data, type of surgical approach required, complications,
duration of hospitalization and mortality rate. On admission, microbial swab analysis was performed. Results: Diabetes Mellitus (DM), Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), iron deficiency
anemia and the involvement of multiple spaces have been associated with a significantly higher risk of developing complications. Most of our patients had polymicrobial infections. All patients
underwent surgical drainage. The complication rate had occurred in 56.6% of patients, while death in 18.3%. Conclusion: DNIs represent a medical and surgical emergency with potentially serious complications;
thus, avoidance of diagnostic delay is mandatory. Our preliminary data suggest the importance of evaluating the extent of infections because the involvement of multiple spaces requires
timely surgery due to the higher risk of complications and mortality.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
1574-8871
DOI:
10.2174/1574887116666210910153033
Language:
English
Publisher:
Bentham Science Publishers Ltd.
Publication Date:
2022
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