Management of Periorbital Necrotising Fasciitis Utilising Negative Pressure Wound Therapy: A Case Report

Abstract

Necrotising fasciitis is a fulminant, rapidly progressive infection associated with extensive tissue destruction and significant mortality. Given the robust blood supply of the face, periorbital necrotising fasciitis is rare in this region. Traditional management consists of prompt initiation of antibiotics and adequate surgical debridement. This report documents the outcome of Type 2 periorbital necrotising fasciitis in a 49-year-old, immunocompetent man, in whom negative pressure wound therapy, was combined with conventional measures. The negative pressure wound therapy was applied directly to the involved orbit, suggesting its safety and efficacy in relation to use over the orbit. Negative pressure wound therapy may be a useful adjunct to the armamentarium of the oculoplastic surgeon for the reconstruction of periorbital defects produced by the surgical debridement of periorbital necrotising fasciitis.