Abdominoplasty as a reconstructive surgical treatment of necrotising fasciitis of the abdominal wall

J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2009 Jun;62(6):e136-9. doi: 10.1016/j.bjps.2008.07.031. Epub 2008 Dec 5.

Abstract

Objectives: Necrotising fasciitis (NF) is a potentially fatal, uncommon infection of the soft tissue with rapid progression. This article presents one case of NF of the abdomen wall, describing the presentation, diagnosis and long-term successful treatment.

Methods: The defect of the abdominal wall was treated with medical support (antibiotics broad-spectrum coverage), V.A.C. therapy and plastic surgery procedures.

Results: The coverage of the abdominal wall defect has been achieved by abdominoplasty-type advancement flaps in one step with the preservation of the umbilicus. One month after the surgical procedure, the patient returned to a normal lifestyle with a good quality of life.

Conclusion: The success of this case should be attributed to an early diagnosis, aggressive debridement and a good intensive medical management; these elements are essential to a better prognosis for NF.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Wall / surgery*
  • Aged
  • Fasciitis, Necrotizing / diagnosis
  • Fasciitis, Necrotizing / surgery*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods*
  • Surgical Flaps