BACKGROUND: Fournier's gangrene is a synergistic necrotizing fasciitis of the perineum and abdominal wall that develops in the scrotum and penis in men and the vulva and groin in women. This disease was initially believed to be idiopathic; however, recent studies have indicated that it is a serious condition caused by gram-positive, gram-negative, or anaerobic bacteria. It is often associated with severe and fatal systemic involvement. METHODS: A retrospective study involving a chart review of 23 patients with Fournier's syndrome treated between January 2002 and January 2012 was conducted. Prompt treatment consisted of broad-spectrum antibiotic administration and serial debridement. The reconstruction techniques ranged from edge approximation via simple sutures to the use of flaps and grafts in cases with extensive lesions. RESULTS: The skin and scrotal reconstruction techniques were effective in all cases, yielding satisfactory aesthetic results. Three (13%) patients died, including 2 patients who had previous illnesses and comorbidities. CONCLUSIONS: Although Fournier's syndrome is a serious disease, therapeutic measures such as prompt intervention, with early debridement and broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy, in a multidisciplinary approach is very effective for controlling the disease, enabling surgical reconstruction of the affected areas with a low mortality rate.
Fournier gangrene; Fasciitis, necrotizing; Reconstructive surgical procedures
