Appropriate surgical management in skin and soft tissue infections.

Purpose of review: To present standards and recent technical innovations in the surgical management of skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI).

Recent findings: SSTI are a frequent cause of presentation in the acute care setting. They can range from simple and uncomplicated to severe and necrotizing infections. Surgical management plays an important role in the treatment of uncomplicated SSTI. Recent evidence indicates that a subgroup of patients (e.g. immunocompromised patients) profits from a postoperative course of antibiotic treatment of 5-7 days. In diabetic foot infections (DFI), repeated debridement to remove necrotic tissue and control infection can prevent minor and major amputation. In necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTI), early and aggressive surgical debridement is paramount. Recent advancements have explored skin-sparing techniques in selective cases.

Summary: The management of SSTIs requires a combination of surgical and antimicrobial strategies tailored to the type and severity of the infection. Further clinical research is necessary in order to define more accurately those collectives in severe SSTI who profit from a less aggressive surgical approach.