Effective local treatment of necrotizing fasciitis using a chlorine solution obtained by electrolysis

Abstract

Introduction Severe surgical wound infection as necrotizing fasciitis is one of the leading causes of death in the postoperative period. Large wounds affecting the skin and soft tissues are a particular problem, as such wounds are difficult to heal, especially in immunocompromised patients. Local treatment is important, and different antiseptics are in clinical use.

Case outline A 45-year-old woman with terminal kidney failure, with hypothyroidism and iodine allergy was admitted to the hospital with multiple abscess formation in the abdominal wall. After the first surgery, necrotic fasciitis and sepsis were diagnosed. Complete parenteral therapy, including antibiotics, other supportive therapy, and hemodialysis was performed. Successive debridement and local treatment with chlorine solution obtained by electrolysis as irrigation solution and wet wound dressing used daily lead to complete healing. Delayed wound closure was performed. She was discharged in good general condition, and the wound was healed completely.

Conclusion The application of a chlorine solution obtained by electrolysis (Aqualor H 200, SIGMA DOO, Kula, Serbia) in a concentration of 0.2 mg/l is effective for local treatment of wounds by washing and applying wet dressing in the wound on skin and soft tissue, especially necrotizing fasciitis as wound with mixed bacterial infection.

Keywords: antiseptics; electrolysis; chlorine-based antiseptic; wound infection; necrotizing fasciitis