Treatment and clinical outcomes in lower extremity necrotizing soft tissue infection.

Abstract

Background: Necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI) is a rapidly progressing infection of the soft tissues under the skin, which poses a life-threatening risk if not treated promptly. Due to the non-specific nature of symptoms at presentation, the diagnosis is often delayed, leading to a high mortality rate and increased risk of amputation. Early treatment requires both surgical intervention and antibiotic therapy. This study aims to investigate the effects of clinical parameters, applied treatments, and initial interventions on mortality and amputation rates in patients with NSTI.

Materials and methods: In a retrospective study, 50 patients diagnosed with NSTI between 2021 and 2024 were included. Patient demographic characteristics (age, gender, comorbidities), isolated microorganisms, antibiotics administered, interventions performed, and the final outcomes were analyzed. Additionally, the Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LRINEC) score, duration of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, length of hospital stay, rates of mortality and amputation were examined.

Results: Among the 50 patients in this study, the mortality rate due to NSTI was 20% (10 patients), and the amputation rate was 60% (30 patients). Both the length of hospital stay and duration of ICU stay were significantly associated with mortality. Diabetes mellitus (DM) was found to be significantly related to amputation. The LRINEC score, presence of chronic renal failure, sepsis, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), smoking, and timing of surgical intervention were not significantly associated with amputation rates. The most common isolated microorganism was Streptococcus pyogenes.

Conclusion: Although the LRINEC score is widely used, it does not play a critical role in the management of NSTI. Factors like underlying comorbidities and hospital stay more significantly affect mortality and amputation rates. Early diagnosis and treatment are recommended to improve patient outcomes.