Necrotising fasciitis of the submandibular region

SummaryTwo cases of necrotizing fasciitis (NF) complicating different conditions of the maxillofacial region, treated at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital are reported. These were managed by an early diagnosis, aggressive surgical exploration, fasciotomies and debridement of necrotic tissue. In addition, frequent irrigation within the fascial planes with eusol and saline solutions plus the administration of broad spectrum antibiotics ensured early containment of the spread of the infection. Our early recognition of the signs and symptoms of NF led to an early intervention resulting in minimal residual skin defects which even though were not skin-grafted healed satisfactorily.