Fournier's gangrene in a modern surgical setting: improved survival with aggressive management

[Current WSES-AAST guidelines on anorectal emergencies-Summary and comments]

In 2019, the World Society of Emergency Surgery (WSES) and the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) generated consensus recommendations for the treatment of anorectal emergencies in Parma, Italy, and published a guideline in 2021. This is the first global guideline dealing with this important topic for surgeons' everyday work. Seven anorectal emergencies were discussed and the guideline recommendations were given according to the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system.

Effect of Colostomy on Treatment Outcome in Fournier Gangrene: A Prospective Comparative Study

Background and Aim: Value of colostomy in management of Fournier gangrene (FG) is a debatable issue. Almost all relevant studies are retrospective and included heterogeneous patients' groups. The present prospective study aimed to evaluate the role of colostomy in management of FG affecting the perianal region in 2 well-matched FG groups. Patients and Methods: The present prospective comparative study included 30 patients with FG associated with extensive involvement of the perianal region. They comprised 15 patients subjected to colostomy and other 15 patients who refused to perform the procedure. Colostomy was performed after the first debridement. Outcome parameters in the present study included time to wound healing, length of hospital stay, and inhospital mortality. Results: Comparison between the studied groups regarding the preoperative characteristics revealed no statistically significant differences. Postoperatively, patients in the colostomy group had significantly fewer number of debridements (1.3 ± 0.5 vs 2.7 ± 1.2, P < .001), shorter hospital stay (9.5 ± 3.3 vs 29.9 ± 6.2 days, P < .001), and significantly shorter time to wound healing (16.5 ± 3.9 vs 42.9 ± 6.9 days, P < .001). Also, patients in the colostomy group had significantly lower rate of wound dehiscence, wound infection, and flap ischemia. However, the difference wasn't statistically significant. Conclusions: Aggressive treatment of FG aided by colostomy after first debridement would result in better clinical outcome.

WSES/GAIS/WSIS/SIS-E/AAST global clinical pathways for patients with skin and soft tissue infections

Skin and soft-tissue infections (SSTIs) encompass a variety of pathological conditions that involve the skin and underlying subcutaneous tissue, fascia, or muscle, ranging from simple superficial infections to severe necrotizing infections.

Together, the World Society of Emergency Surgery, the Global Alliance for Infections in Surgery, the Surgical Infection Society-Europe, The World Surgical Infection Society, and the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma have jointly completed an international multi-society document to promote global standards of care in SSTIs guiding clinicians by describing reasonable approaches to the management of SSTIs.

An extensive non-systematic review was conducted using the PubMed and MEDLINE databases, limited to the English language. The resulting evidence was shared by an international task force with different clinical backgrounds.

The impact of operative time on the outcomes of necrotizing soft tissue infections: a multicenter cohort study

Background

The primary aim of this study was to identify if there is an association between the operative time of the initial debridement for necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) and the mortality corrected for disease severity.

Methods

A retrospective multicenter study was conducted of all patients with NSTIs undergoing surgical debridement. The primary outcome was the 30-day mortality. The secondary outcomes were days until death, length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, length of hospital stay, number of surgeries within first 30 days, amputations and days until definitive wound closure.

Results

A total of 160 patients underwent surgery for NSTIs and were eligible for inclusion. Twenty-two patients (14%) died within 30 days and 21 patients (13%) underwent an amputation. The median operative time of the initial debridement was 59 min (IQR 35–90). In a multivariable analyses, corrected for sepsis just prior to the initial surgery, estimated total body surface (TBSA) area affected and the American Society for Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, a prolonged operative time (per 20 min) was associated with a prolonged ICU (β 1.43, 95% CI 0.46–2.40; p = 0.004) and hospital stay (β 3.25, 95% CI 0.23–6.27; p = 0.035), but not with 30-day mortality. Operative times were significantly prolonged in case of NSTIs of the trunk (p = 0.044), in case of greater estimated TBSA affected (p = 0.006) or if frozen sections and/or Gram stains were assessed intra-operatively (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Prolonged initial surgery did not result in a higher mortality rate, possible because of a short duration of surgery in most studied patients. However, a prolonged operative time was associated with a prolonged ICU and hospital stay, regardless of the estimated TBSA affected, presence of sepsis prior to surgery and the ASA classification. As such, keeping operative times as limited as possible might be beneficial for NSTI patients.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12893-021-01456-0.

Anorectal emergencies: WSES-AAST guidelines

Anorectal emergencies comprise a wide variety of diseases that share common symptoms, i.e., anorectal pain or bleeding and might require immediate management. While most of the underlying conditions do not need inpatient management, some of them could be life-threatening and need prompt recognition and treatment. It is well known that an incorrect diagnosis is frequent for anorectal diseases and that a delayed diagnosis is related to an impaired outcome. This paper aims to improve the knowledge and the awareness on this specific topic and to provide a useful tool for every physician dealing with anorectal emergencies.The present guidelines have been developed according to the GRADE methodology. To create these guidelines, a panel of experts was designed and charged by the boards of the World Society of Emergency Surgery (WSES) and American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) to perform a systematic review of the available literature and to provide evidence-based statements with immediate practical application. All the statements were presented and discussed during the WSES-AAST-WJES Consensus Conference on Anorectal Emergencies, and for each statement, a consensus among the WSES-AAST panel of experts was reached. We structured our work into seven main topics to cover the entire management of patients with anorectal emergencies and to provide an up-to-date, easy-to-use tool that can help physicians and surgeons during the decision-making process.

Fournier's gangrene mortality: A 17-year systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

To provide better management of Fournier's gangrene, mortality-associated comorbidities and common etiologies were identified.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted using 12 databases, followed by meticulous screening to select relevant articles. Meta-analysis and meta-regression (for possible cofounders) were both done for all possible outcomes.

RESULTS

Out of 1186 reports screened, 38 studies were finally included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. A higher risk of mortality was detected in patients with diabetes, heart disease, renal failure, and kidney disease, with risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) of 0.72 (0.59-0.89), 0.39 (0.24-0.62), 0.41 (0.27-0.63), and 0.34 (95% CI 0.16-0.73), respectively. However, there was no association between mortality rates and comorbid hypertension, lung disease, liver disease, or malignant disease (p > 0.05). The highest mortality rates were due to sepsis (76%) and multiple organ failure (66%), followed by respiratory (19.4%), renal (18%), cardiovascular (15.7%), and hepatic (5%) mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Modifications to the Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index (FGSI) are recommended, in order to include comorbidities as an important prognostic tool for FG mortality. Close monitoring of the patients, with special interest given to the main causes of mortality, is an essential element of the management process.

Fournier Gangrene: A Review for Emergency Clinicians

BACKGROUND

Fournier gangrene (FG) is a rare, life-threatening infection that can result in significant morbidity and mortality, with many patients requiring emergency department (ED) management for complications and stabilization.

OBJECTIVE

This narrative review provides an evidence-based summary of the current data for the emergency medicine evaluation and management of FG.

DISCUSSION

Although originally thought to be an idiopathic process, FG has been shown to have a strong association for male patients with advanced age and comorbidities affecting microvascular circulation and immune system function, most commonly those with diabetes or alcohol use disorder. However, it can also affect patients without risk factors. The initial infectious nidus is usually located in the genitourinary tract, gastrointestinal tract, or perineum. FG is a mixed infection of aerobic and anaerobic bacterial flora. The development and progression of gangrene is often fulminant and can rapidly cause multiple organ failure and death, although patients may present subacutely with findings similar to cellulitis. Laboratory studies, as well as imaging including point-of-care ultrasound, conventional radiography, and computed tomography are important diagnostic adjuncts, though negative results cannot exclude diagnosis. Treatment includes emergent surgical debridement of all necrotic tissue, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and resuscitation with intravenous fluids and vasoactive medications.

CONCLUSIONS

FG requires a high clinical level of suspicion, combined with knowledge of anatomy, risk factors, and etiology for an accurate diagnosis. Although FG remains a clinical diagnosis, relevant laboratory and radiography investigations can serve as useful adjuncts to expedite surgical management, hemodynamic resuscitation, and antibiotic administration.

Can Hyperbaric OxygenTherapy (HOT) have a Place in the Treatment of some Urological Diseases?

HOT (Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy) is used in urological diseases: Scrotal/perineal fasciitis and Radiation-induced cystitis (and proctopathy); in urgency and frequency syndrome and with chronic pelvic pain the use of HOT is still experimental.

The basic principle of HOT is to increase oxygen dissolved in the blood when it is administered at high pressure. 02 is then distributed to the tissues through the pressure gradient; tissue hyper-oxygenation has anti-inflammatory and pain-killing effects, it increases bacterial permeability to antibiotics, strengthens neo-angiogenesis, reinforces lymphocytes and macrophages function, augments testosterone secretion (in males), and finally enhances wound healing process.

We treated with HOT (integrating other treatments) 17 cases of necrotizing fasciitis, 13 radiation-induced cystitis and 4 cases of urgency and frequency syndrome. We always had good results, with a good cleansing of the dissected areas in Fournier's gangrene; in the cases of radiation-induced cystitis we had an improvement in the symptoms and hematuria, and finally in cases of urgency and frequency syndrome we had a transient reduction of symptomatology and pain.

Our experiences and the specific literature on this subject suggest that HOT, sometimes associated with other medical and surgical therapies, can be an effective tool to treat urological diseases; in some cases its efficacy was well demonstrated (Fournier's gangrene and Radiation-induced cystitis), in others (urgency-frequency syndrome and chronic pelvic pain) it is a promising technique which definitely needs further research.

2018 WSES/SIS-E consensus conference: recommendations for the management of skin and soft-tissue infections

Skin and soft-tissue infections (SSTIs) encompass a variety of pathological conditions that involve the skin and underlying subcutaneous tissue, fascia, or muscle, ranging from simple superficial infections to severe necrotizing infections. SSTIs are a frequent clinical problem in surgical departments. In order to clarify key issues in the management of SSTIs, a task force of experts met in Bertinoro, Italy, on June 28, 2018, for a specialist multidisciplinary consensus conference under the auspices of the World Society of Emergency Surgery (WSES) and the Surgical Infection Society Europe (SIS-E). The multifaceted nature of these infections has led to a collaboration among general and emergency surgeons, intensivists, and infectious disease specialists, who have shared these clinical practice recommendations.

Contemporary Trends in the Inpatient Management of Fournier's Gangrene: Predictors of Length of Stay and Mortality Based on Population-based Sample

OBJECTIVE

To describe clinical management of Fournier's gangrene and to characterize predictive factors associated with inpatient mortality and extended hospital stay.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample was queried from 2004 to 2012 based on the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification procedural and diagnosis codes. Patients admitted for Fournier's gangrene who underwent debridement were selected. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of inpatient mortality and extended hospital stay.

RESULTS

A total of 9249 patients were identified for a weighted estimate of 43,146 cases. Inpatient mortality was 4.7%. The median length of stay was 9 days (interquartile range 5-17 days). The most common procedure in addition to debridement was a complex closure (8.82%), followed by suprapubic tube placement (5.70%) and fecal diversion (4.68%). Increasing age, yearly hospital volume >10 cases, and Medicaid insurance status were associated with increased risk of mortality. Increasing age, teaching hospital status, increasing number of comorbidities, and Medicaid as a payor were predictive of increased hospital stay. Suprapubic tube placement (odds ratio [OR] 2.8 [95% confidence interval {CI} 1.92-4.07], P ≤ .001), fecal diversion (OR 11.1 [95% CI 6.20-19.7], P ≤ .001), and complex wound closure (OR 4.89 [95% CI 3.97-6.89], P ≤ .001) were also predictive of increased length of stay.

CONCLUSION

Identifiable patient and hospital characteristics are predictive of both mortality and length of stay in the management of Fournier's gangrene. Overall inpatient mortality appears lower than what has been reported in the majority of prior reports. The strongest predictor for increased length of stay is the need for complex wound closure, and urinary or fecal diversion.

Is hemoglobin A1c level effective in predicting the prognosis of Fournier gangrene?

Objectives:

To evaluate the effect of immune failure and/or diabetes mellitus (DM) association on the mortality and morbidity of the Fournier's Gangrene (FG), and interrelatedly, the usability of HbA1c level in the prediction of prognosis.

Materials and Methods:

The data of 38 patients with the diagnosis of FG were investigated retrospectively. The patients were divided into two groups as patients with DM (Group 1, n = 18) and non-diabetics (Group 2, n = 20). The patients in group 1 were also divided into two subgroups as patients with HbA1c value ≥7 (Group 1a) and HbA1c value <7 (Group 1b).

Results:

The mean age of all 38 male patients was 66.3 ± 6.4 years. The initial symptoms were scrotal rash and swelling (n = 20, 52.6%), high fever (>38°C) (n = 22, 57.8%), purulent discharge from genital or perineal areas (n = 13, 34.2%), skin bruises (n = 11, 28.9%) and general state disorder in five patients that were admitted from day care center (13.1%). DM, as the most often comorbid disease, was detected in 18 patients (47.3%). Six patients (15.7%) were deceased during the follow-up period.

Conclusion:

In the present study, the researchers determined that diabetic patients with HbA1c level of 7 or higher had worse prognosis, and increased mortality.

Neutrophil to Lymphocyte and Platelet to Lymphocyte Ratios Are More Effective than the Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index for Predicting Poor Prognosis in Fournier's Gangrene

BACKGROUND

We investigated the value of the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) as markers of mortality in patients with Fournier's gangrene.

METHODS

Records from 62 patients treated for Fournier's gangrene between 2003 and 2014 were reviewed retrospectively. Data were collected regarding medical history, symptoms, physical examination findings, admission laboratory tests, and the extent of body surface area involved (%). Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index score, NLR, and PLR were calculated. The data were assessed separately for surviving and deceased patients.

RESULTS

Of the 62 patients, 36 survived (58%, group 1) and 26 died (42%, group 2). Parameters that were statistically different between the two groups (p < 0.05) were the NLR, PLR, Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index score, and admission laboratory parameters, including body temperature, heart rate, bicarbonate, albumin, and serum calcium. The average body surface area affected in group 2 was statistically different from that of group 1 (6.0% versus 2.3%, p = 0.001). A high Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index score (>9), high NLR (>8), and high PLR (>140) were associated more frequently with group 2 patients. Multivariable regression analysis showed that high NLR (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 4.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.25-17.3; p = 0.022) and high PLR (adjusted OR, 11.6; 95% CI, 2.7-49.5; p = 0.001) were independent prognostic factors for poor prognosis from Fournier's gangrene. However, the Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index score did not shown any statistically significant effect on mortality (p = 0.086).

CONCLUSIONS

The Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index scoring system was not associated with determining poor prognosis, however, high NLR and high PLR were associated with predictors of mortality in patients with Fournier's gangrene.

HIV and Men

INTRODUCTION

Since the initial description of HIV and AIDS, monumental efforts have been made both in the developed and developing countries to devise strategies and medications to control the disease. The advent of highly active antiretroviral therapy has now meant that the diagnosis of HIV is no longer a life-sentence and compliant patients with HIV can expect life expectancy similar to their noninfected peers. Consequently new challenges have arisen in the management of benign conditions.

AIM

To provide an overview of the key conditions and issues that HIV/AIDS patients may present with to an andrological service.

METHODS

Using PubMed, we screened the literature for studies on common andrological conditions specifically pertaining to HIV and AIDS.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The urological manifestations of HIV/AIDS in men have been summarized in an attempt to provide a useful guide for sexual health practitioners dealing with HIV-positive men.

RESULTS

As a result of advancements in pharmaceuticals, life expectancy of men infected with HIV has improved almost to that of the general population in developed countries. Therefore, clinicians are faced with non-life-threatening urological problems that affect the quality of life of men with HIV. The majority of these problems can be managed easily, by adapting a "patient-centered" approach, instead of "disease-centered" algorithms.

CONCLUSION

With improved survival and understanding, patients with HIV/AIDS can and do expect to enjoy a healthy sex life. With appropriate counseling around safe sex and careful management with consideration for disease-specific issues as well as the influence of medical therapy, patients can achieve a good quality of life.

Contemporary diagnosis and management of Fournier's gangrene

Fournier's gangrene, an obliterative endarteritis of the subcutaneous arteries resulting in gangrene of the overlying skin, is a rare but severe infective necrotizing fasciitis of the external genitalia. Mainly associated with men and those over the age of 50, Fournier's gangrene has been shown to have a predilection for patients with diabetes as well as people who are long-term alcohol misusers. The nidus for the synergistic polymicrobial infection is usually located in the genitourinary tract, lower gastointestinal tract or skin. Early diagnosis remains imperative as rapid progression of the gangrene can lead to multiorgan failure and death. The diagnosis is often made clinically, although radiography can be helpful when the diagnosis or the extent of the disease is difficult to discern. The Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis score can be used to stratify patients into low, moderate or high risk and the Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index (FGSI) can also be used to determine the severity and prognosis of Fournier's gangrene. Mainstays of treatment include rapid and aggressive surgical debridement of necrotized tissue, hemodynamic support with urgent resuscitation with fluids, and broad-spectrum parental antibiotics. After initial radical debridement, open wounds are generally managed with sterile dressings and negative-pressure wound therapy. In cases of severe perineal involvement, colostomy has been used for fecal diversion or alternatively, the Flexi-Seal Fecal Management System can be utilized to prevent fecal contamination of the wound. After extensive debridement, many patients sustain significant defects of the skin and soft tissue, creating a need for reconstructive surgery for satisfactory functional and cosmetic results.

Fournier's gangrene at a tertiary health facility in northwestern Tanzania: a single centre experiences with 84 patients

BACKGROUND

Fournier's gangrene (FG) is a rare, rapidly progressive, necrotizing fasciitis of the external genitalia and perineum, leading to soft-tissue necrosis. Despite antibiotics and aggressive debridement, the mortality rate of FG remains high. This study describes our experiences in the management of FG and identifies prognostic factors.

METHODS

This was a descriptive retrospective study of patients with FG treated at Bugando Medical Centre between November 2006 and April 2014.

RESULTS

A total of 84 patients (M:F = 41:1) were studied. The median age was 34 years (range 15-76 years). The most common predisposing factor was diabetes mellitus (16.7%). Nine (11.3%) patients were HIV positive. Bacterial culture results were obtained in only 46 (54.8%) patients. Of these, 38(82.6%) had polymicrobial bacterial growth while 8 (17.4%) had monomicrobial bacterial growth. Escherichia coli (28.3%) were the most frequent bacterial organism isolated. All the microorganisms isolated showed high resistance to commonly used antibiotics except for Meropenem and imipenem, which were 100% sensitive each respectively. All patients were treated with a common approach of resuscitation, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and wide surgical excision. The median length of hospital stay (LOS) was 28 days and mortality rate was 28.6%. Systemic inflammatory response syndrome and diabetes mellitus were significantly associated with prolonged LOS (p < 0.001), whereas advancing age (>60 years), late presentation (>48 h), systemic inflammatory response syndrome on admission, diabetes mellitus, extension of infection to the abdominal wall, FG severity score >9 and HIV infection with CD4 count <200 μl/cells) were independent predictors of mortality (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Fournier's gangrene remains a very severe disease with high mortality rates. Early recognition of infection associated with invasive and aggressive treatment is essential for attempting to reduce mortality rates associated with this disease in our setting.

Fournier gangrene in pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Fournier gangrene is a rare and rapidly progressive necrosis of the perineal and genitourinary region. Although predominantly affecting men, we describe an unusual presentation in pregnancy.

CASE

A 30-year old primigravid woman in the third trimester of pregnancy presented with a history of low back pain. Subsequently, a diagnosis of perianal sepsis and associated Fournier gangrene was established. The patient underwent an emergency cesarean delivery followed by radical surgical debridement and colostomy.

CONCLUSION

Expedited delivery, timely diagnosis of gangrene, urgent, extensive debridement, and broad-spectrum antibiotic coverage contributed largely to effective management of this rare presentation in pregnancy.

Successful combined approach to a severe Fournier's gangrene

We present a case of a successful reconstruction of a severe Fournier's gangrene (FG) involving the scrotum, the perineum, the right ischial area and extended to the lower abdomen. There are many different surgical techniques to repair and reconstruct the defect following debridement in FG. The authors treated this complex wound using negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), dermal regeneration template and a split-thickness skin graft. Complete recovery was achieved and no major complications were observed. The patient showed a satisfying functional and aesthetic result.

Prospective evaluation of risk factors for mortality in patients of Fournier's gangrene: A single center experience

Introduction:

Fournier's gangrene is an aggressive disease with high morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to assess risk factors associated with mortality among patients of Fournier's gangrene.

Materials and Methods:

Between May 2011 and September 2012, all patients of Fournier's gangrene treated at our center were included in the study. All patients underwent emergency surgical debridement and received broad spectrum intravenous antibiotics. Their baseline characteristics, treatment, and follow-up data were recorded and analyzed.

Results:

A total of 30 patients were included in the study. Of these, six patients (20%) died during the treatment. Age <55 years, total leukocyte count <15000 cumm, extent of the area involved, septic shock at admission, visual analog scale (VAS) <7 at admission, and Fournier gangrene severity index (FGSI) score <8 at admission were significantly associated with increased mortality.

Conclusion:

In patients of Fournier's gangrene, increased age, total leukocyte count, extent of the area involved, septic shock at admission, VAS score, and FGSI score at admission have a significant association with mortality.

Fournier's gangrene: our experience with 50 patients and analysis of factors affecting mortality

INTRODUCTION

Fournier's gangrene is a rare, rapidly progressive, necrotizing fasciitis of the external genitalia and perineum. Case series have shown a mortality rate of 20% to 40% with an incidence of as high as 88% in some reports. In this study we aimed to share our experience in the management of Fournier's gangrene and to identify risk factors that affect mortality.

METHODS

The medical records of 50 patients with Fournier's gangrene who presented at the University Hospital Hassan II of Fez from January 2003 to December 2009 were reviewed retrospectively to analyze the outcome and identify the risk factors and prognostic indicators of mortality.

RESULTS

Ten males and five females were enrolled in the study. The mean age was 54 years (range 23-81). The most common predisposing factor was diabetes mellitus (34%). E. coli was the most frequent bacterial organisms cultured. All patients were treated with a common approach of resuscitation, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and wide surgical excision. The mortality rate was 24%. The advanced age, renal failure on admission, extension of infection to the abdominal wall, occurrence of septic shock and need for postoperative mechanical ventilation are the main prognostic factors of mortality. In multivariate analysis, none of these variables is an independent predictor of mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Fournier's gangrene is still a very severe disease with high mortality rates. Early recognition of infection associated with invasive and aggressive treatment is essential for attempting to reduce these prognostic indices.

Evaluation of the Utility of the Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index in the Management of Fournier's Gangrene in North India: A Multicentre Retrospective Study

OBJECTIVE

To study the utility of Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index (FGSI) with mortality predictive value in our tertiary institutes in North India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective study of 95 cases of Fournier's Gangrene (FG), admitted from 2009 to 2011, was carried out. We analysed clinical and laboratory findings, various prognostic factors, surgical treatments and their outcomes in FG patients. FGSI was used as individual variable to estimate the severity of FG; the effects of these factors on mortality were also evaluated.

RESULTS

The overall mean age was 46.5 ± 15.6 (range 24-82) years. Anorectal and urological regions were the main sites of the infection. The most common site of infection origin was scrotum in 81.3% in group A and 41.2% in group B. One or more predisposing factors such as diabetes mellitus (DM; 55%) malignancies (4.6%), chronic renal failure (4.5%) and previous surgery (9.2%) were detected. We observed mortality in 26.5% cases (17/65). The FGSI calculated averaged 5.95 ± 365 in group A and 9.44 ± 2.56 in group B, at the time of admission (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In FG, an early diagnosis and early surgical debridement are essential. The FGSI seems to be an excellent tool for the outcome prediction.

Fournier's Gangrene: Conventional Dressings versus Dressings with Dakin's Solution

Purpose. Fournier's gangrene is a fulminant and destructive inflammation of the scrotum, penis, and perineum. The objective of this study was to compare 2 different approaches to wound management after aggressive surgical debridement. Methods. Data from 14 patients with Fournier's gangrene were retrospectively collected (2005–2011). Once the patients were stabilized following surgery, they were treated with either daily antiseptic (povidone iodine) dressings (group I, n = 6) or dressings with dakin's solution (sodium hypochloride) (group II, n = 8). Results. The mean age of the patients was 68.2 ± 7.8 (55–75) years in group I and 66.9 ± 10.2 (51–79) years in group II. Length of hospital stay was 13 ± 3.5 (7–16) days in group I and 8.9 ± 3.0 (4–12) days in group II (P < 0.05). The number and rate of mortality was 1/6 (16.7%) in group I, and 1/8 (12.5%) in group II. Conclusions. The hospitalization time can be reduced with the use of dakin's solution for the dressings in the treatment of FG. Also, dressings with dakin's solution seems to have favorable effects on morbidity and mortality. Consequently dakin's solution may alter the treatment of this disastrous disease by reducing cost, morbidity and mortality.

The clinical features of Fournier's gangrene and the predictivity of the Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index on the outcomes

Fournier's gangrene (FG) is a rare, rapidly progressive, fulminant form of necrotizing fasciitis of the genital, perianal and perineal regions. Several factors have been reported to contribute to the clinical outcomes. The primary aims of this study were to examine the clinical features of patients with FG and evaluate the predictivity of the Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index (FGSI) score on the outcomes. We carried out a collective retrospective chart review of patients diagnosed and treated for FG in three reference centers between January 1995 and July 2007. Seventy-two patients with FG with were included to the study. Data were collected on medical history, symptoms, physical examination findings, admission and final laboratory tests, timing and extent of surgical debridement and antibiotic therapy. Perianal and perirectal abscess, scrotal abscess and urethral stenosis were the leading etiological factors. Diabetes mellitus was the predominant risk factor. Etiological factors and risk factors did not significantly contribute to survival or mortality, and duration of the symptoms was significantly longer in the non-survivor's group (P < 0.05). The FGSI scores were higher in the non-survivor's group. Regression analysis showed a FGSIS score of 10.5 as the cut-off to the outcome. Based on these results, we conclude that a patient's metabolic status and the extent of disease at presentation are the most important factors determining the prognosis of FG. The FGSI score may be considered as an objective and simple tool to predict the outcome in the patient with FG and should be used in further studies of FG patient series for comparison purposes.

Fournier's gangrene: our experience of 10 cases

Fournier's gangrene, described for the first time by Alfred Jean Fournier in 1883, is a very uncommon disease.

It is characterized by an acute process of cellulites and necrotizing fasciitis of the external genitalia, perineum and abdominal wall; its mortality rate is about 30–50%.

We retrospectively reviewed 10 patients affected by Fournier's gangrene admitted to our Department of Urology from 1997 to 2006. At a mean follow-up of 37 months (range 0–108) 7 patients are alive and disease free, 1 patient is alive bearing the signs of the gangrene, and 2 patients died because of the disease complications.

We have noted that patients’ survival depends on early intervention and extremely aggressive approach. The combination of these factors with antibiotic therapy and supportive care have made this disease treatable and curable.

HIV-AIDS: urologic considerations

The prevalence of HIV continues to grow in the United States and worldwide. HIV-positive patients experience many genitourinary disease processes. With improvements in HIV therapy, patients have questions and concerns pertaining to their quality of life. This article reviews conditions such as HIV-related urinary tract infections, urolithiasis, voiding dysfunction, fertility, sexual dysfunction, HIV-related nephropathy, malignancies, and occupational exposure and prophylaxis. Knowledge of the various HIV manifestations of genitourinary conditions and their treatment options benefits clinicians and improves patient outcomes.

A 12-month-old infant with Fournier gangrene associated with varicella

Fournier gangrene is a progressive infection of the genital and perianal regions. It is a truly rare entity in association with varicella. There is only a single case published in the literature. We present the second case of a Fournier gangrene associated with varicella in an infant.

Factors affecting mortality of Fournier's gangrene: review of 70 patients

BACKGROUND

Fournier's disease is a potentially fatal, acute, gangrenous infection of the scrotum, penis or perineum associated with a synergistic bacterial infection of the subcutaneous fat and superficial fascia.

METHODS

The clinical records of 70 patients treated for Fournier's gangrene were evaluated retrospectively to determine prognostic indices and to stress Fournier's Severity Index (FSI), influencing outcome.

RESULTS

The mortality rate in this study was 22.8%. Length of the hospitalization time and FSI were detected as effective factors on mortality of Fournier's gangrene (P < 0.05) by Binary Logistic Regression analysis and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of these variables was also found to be significant (P < 0.001). The average FSI was determined as 4.66 +/- 2.31 in survivors and 11.56 +/- 2.68 in non-survivors and 5.11 +/- 2.83 in patients with primary genito-urinary infection but 7.56 +/- 4.35 in primary anorectal infection. The FSI was also found predictive of hospitalization time and number of debridements among survivors.

CONCLUSION

Fournier's Severity Index is a simplified way of comparing patients with this disease and may also have some significance in predicting outcome. The FSI is a more significant and predictive tool that should be popularized to predict the prognosis in Fournier's gangrene.

Fournier's gangrene: a review of 43 reconstructive cases

BACKGROUND

Fournier's gangrene is a rare and potentially fatal infectious disease characterized by necrotic fasciitis of the perineum and abdominal wall, along with the scrotum and penis in men and the vulva in women. Fournier's gangrene is a true surgical emergency. Skin loss can be very incapacitating and difficult to repair.

METHODS

The authors reviewed retrospectively the clinical records of a series of 43 patients with Fournier's gangrene between the years 1985 and 2003 who, after initial treatment by the Departments of Urology and Surgery, were referred to the Department of Plastic Surgery for reconstruction. The following parameters were evaluated: age, gender, interval between onset of symptoms and diagnosis, clinical symptoms, lesion site, results of bacteriologic cultures, cause and predisposing factors, treatment and reconstructive procedures, length of hospital stay, and outcome.

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 56.6 years. Fifteen patients (34.9 percent) had diabetes mellitus. The cause of Fournier's gangrene was found in 32 patients (74.4 percent). The most common presentation was scrotal swelling, and scrotal involvement was found in 40 cases (93.0 percent). All of the patients underwent surgical debridement, and several reconstruction techniques were used. The mean length of hospital stay was 73.6 days. Two patients died.

CONCLUSIONS

Management of this infectious entity should be aggressive. Several techniques that are used to reconstruct the lost tissue have shown good results. The superomedial thigh skin flap has proven to be a reliable method of resurfacing large scrotal defects. Reconstructive surgery makes the return to a normal social life possible in many cases.

Fournier's gangrene: risk factors and strategies for management

OBJECTIVE

The prognosis of Fournier's gangrene (FG) depends on early diagnosis and management. In this study, our objective was to identify the distinct features of FG that may influence the clinical outcome.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed in patients with a diagnosis of FG between January 1999 and December 2003. Etiological and predisposing factors, causative microbiological organisms, and clinical outcome were investigated.

RESULTS

Twenty-five men (71%) and 10 women (29%) were included in the study. Mean age was 59.7 +/- 10.7 (range: 43-88) years. As a predisposing factor, diabetes mellitus (DM) was found to be in 46% of patients. All patients were treated by immediate debridement and wide-spectrum antibiotics. More than one bacterium was found in 75% of the patients' tissue cultures, and most frequently E. coli (43%) was identified. Although there were no etiological factors in 25 patients (71%), various etiological factors were found in 10 patients (29%). Multiple debridements were performed in the majority of the cases. The overall mortality rate was 40%. The mortality rates were found to be relatively higher in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM; 50%), with delayed admission to the hospital (45%), and in patients presenting with sepsis at the first admission to the hospital (78%) compared with others. In the logistic regression model, the presence of sepsis was as the only significant independent risk factor for mortality in FG.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the use of contemporary effective antibiotic treatment, aggressive debridements, and state-of-the-art intensive care conditions, FG still has high mortality and morbidity rates. In our series mortality rates were found to be higher in patients with delayed admission to the hospital, those with DM, and those who initially presented with sepsis.

Fournier's gangrene treated by simultaneously using colostomy and open drainage

We report our findings and results on treating a patient with Fournier's gangrene by using colostomy along with open drainage. A 39-year-old male had noticed a swelling and experienced pain in the scrotal sac approximately 1 week before his admission. On admission, his symptoms aggravated and he experienced constipation and difficulty in urination. Local examination of the scrotum circumference revealed a remarkable swelling, and redness and sloughing that had extended to the perianal area. In an emergency operation, incision and drainage of the scrotum, double-barrelled colostomy at the transverse colon, and reconstruction of the percutaneous cystotomy were performed. Postoperative open wound was cleaned twice a day and intravenous infusions of 1g imipenem/cilastatin sodium and 1.2g clindamycin phosphate were administered daily. The patient was discharged 61 days after the operation. Fournier's gangrene has a high mortality rate, and in severe cases that are complicated with infection protracted from defecation, dyschezia and difficulty in urination, we believe that it would be most effective to perform an open drainage and a colostomy simultaneously.

Fournier's gangrene: can aggressive treatment save life?

Fournier's gangrene (FG) is a rapidly progressive, fulminant infection of the scrotum, perineum and the abdominal wall. FG is caused by synergic aerobic and anaerobic organisms. Modern surgical series report mortality of up to 67%. This originally rare disease has become more frequent. Aggressive treatment including antibiotics, antigangrenous serum, and treatment of all accompanied diseases and disorders can be successful. Treatment also includes debridement and plastic corrections. Authors describe management of 8 patients with FG. Treatment of FG and all accompanied diseases was in all cases successful. Treatment costs of this kind of patients were approximately 20 times higher than treatment of patients with other urologic diseases.

Impact of diabetes mellitus on the presentation and outcomes of Fournier's gangrene

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate, in a population of patients with very high risk of diabetes, the natural history of Fournier's gangrene (FG) and to characterize the differences in presentation and outcome.

METHODS

Patients with FG were identified during a 6-year period at two tertiary care institutions in San Antonio, Texas. The impact of diabetes on presentation and outcome were evaluated and compared with previous series.

RESULTS

We identified 26 patients with FG, of whom 20 (76.9%) had diabetes. Diabetes was the most common risk factor identified and was associated with a younger age. The average hospital stay was not affected by the diagnosis of diabetes. Of 26 patients treated for FG, 3 (11%) died, 1 of whom had diabetes. Although the extent of debridement required was greater among diabetics, the average number of debridements required was not increased (2.55 in diabetic and 2.4 in nondiabetic patients).

CONCLUSIONS

Although diabetes is a risk factor for FG, the outcome is not affected by this diagnosis.

The nontraumatic, acute scrotum

Regardless of age, any presentation of an acute scrotum requires prompt triage and immediate evaluation. The potential for significant reduction in morbidity and mortality exists if timely diagnosis and treatment are provided. Often overlooked, an early scrotal examination in the emergency department may produce the most accurate information into the underlying pathologic process, be it systemic or localized to the scrotum. Although the immediately lethal conditions presenting as acute scrotal pain should be considered, the combined incidence and morbidity associated with testicular torsion make its exclusion paramount in acute scrotal presentations. Similarly, a painless scrotal mass must be assumed to be a testicular neoplasm until proven otherwise, with appropriate work-up and rapid urologic follow-up assured.