Gas gangrene infections of the small intestine, colon and rectum

Thirty-three cases of gas gangrene infections originating from the small bowel, colon, and rectum are reviewed. The distinction between localized and diffuse, spreading, types of infection is made. The overall mortality rate was 42.4% and mortality was highest for infections following elective bowel resections. Treatment consisted of antibiotics and surgical debridement, with hyperbaric oxygen used as adjunctive therapy for the more serious cases. The importance of early recognition of clostridial infection is stressed as the key to improved survival.