Head and neck necrotizing fasciitis: the importance of negative pressure wound therapy with literature review

Abstract

BackgroundNecrotizing fasciitis is an aggressive infection of the soft tissues and subcutaneous fascia. The involvement of the head and neck region is very rare but carries significant mortality. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) became very popular in treating complicated wounds.Case presentationWe present a case of necrotizing fasciitis in cervical region. After surgical debridement, a NPWT device was applied. NPWT provides advantages compared to conventional debridement and drainage.ConclusionThis method is recommended as an adjuvant tool in treating necrotizing fasciitis in head and neck region because it helps to eradicate infection, provides comfort to the patient and facilitates wound healing.