Necrotizing Fasciitis in the Immediate Post-Operative Period Following Resection and Free Flap Reconstruction for Oral Cancer

Abstract

Necrotising fasciitis (NF) is a rapidly spreading bacterial infection of the fascial planes and can be fatal if is not treated urgently. Here, we present the case of a 65-year-old female, with oral squamous cell carcinoma, treated surgically with curative intent. On the second post-operative day from a mandibulectomy, selective neck dissection and reconstruction with a fibula free flap, she developed rapidly progressing NF, at the surgical site.