title: Retroperitoneal necrotizing fasciitis - when a simple procedure turns ugly.
abstract: We present a case series of patients who underwent simple perianal procedures outside this hospital but developed postoperative and life-threatening retroperitoneal necrotizing fasciitis. With a high index of clinical suspicion and radiological imaging, we were able to establish earlier diagnosis. Resuscitation, the use of intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics, aggressive surgical debridement and continuous organ support were essential in achieving a positive outcome in both of these patients.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University Hospital, Stadium Road, PO Box 3500, Karachi-74800, Pakistan. rehman.alvi@aku.edu
authors.forename: Abdul
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Alvi
authors.forename: Ghina
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Shamsi
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001003:Anal Canal / Q000601:surgery*; D003125:Colostomy; D003646:Debridement; D019115:Fasciitis, Necrotizing / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011859:Radiography; D012187:Retroperitoneal Space / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000601:surgery*