Novel Approach for Management of Deep Space Neck Infections: a Case Report

Abstract

When patients present with deep space neck infections, typically the treatment involves Incision and Drainage (I&D) with an extraoral incision that could measure several centimeters in length, as well as antibiotic administration. While this approach is effective in managing these types of infections, it is not without limitations. Most notably, patients treated with I&Ds often are subject to prolonged hospitalization due to sepsis and they complain of a permanent, unsightly scar in the facial or cervical region once healed. In this case report, a 28-year-old male patient presenting to the emergency room with a right mandibular space collection of suppuration is treated with a modified version of the Seldinger technique which provided adequate abscess drainage and a more cosmetically-pleasing outcome once healed. Furthermore, this patient was treated bedside under local anesthesia as opposed to in an operating room under general anesthesia. While this technique may not be indicated for every patient presenting with deep space neck infections, it is a less-invasive approach that was effective for this patient.