Necrotising Fascitis

Description

This session focuses on necrotizing fasciitis, featuring Ms. Lorraine Harry, a consultant plastic surgeon with extensive experience from Morriston Hospital in Swansea and the major trauma center in Cardiff. The talk begins with a detailed case presentation by Lorraine concerning a fit 66-year-old man who experienced severe leg pain following a suspected spider bite. Initially presenting with cellulitis, his condition deteriorated, revealing signs indicative of necrotizing fasciitis.



The discussion underscored the challenges of accurate diagnosis, particularly given the rare nature of necrotizing fasciitis compared to common cellulitis. Lorraine outlines the critical importance of timely recognition and surgical intervention, emphasizing the necessity for early surgical debridement to improve patient outcomes. She further describes the progression of symptoms and the importance of clinical observations in managing this potentially life-threatening condition. Various diagnostic techniques, including the finger sweep for fascia involvement, were highlighted, demonstrating the pivotal role of quick diagnosis in saving lives.



The presentation concluded with the promising outcome of the presented patient, who, after multiple surgeries for debridement and reconstruction, successfully returned to his active lifestyle. This session serves as an educational roadmap for recognizing, diagnosing, and treating necrotizing fasciitis effectively in clinical practice.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-221728

Specialties