A study of deep space infections of neck

Abstract

Background: The objective of the study was to analyse the signs and symptoms, etiology, site and outcome of deep space infections of neck. Methods: This was retrospective study and included 50 patients admitted with deep neck space infections to Government Mc Gann teaching hospital SIMS, Shimoga, Karnataka, India between January 2009 – January 2015. Results: The extreme age group, high virulence of organism, underlying clinical conditions, low socioeconomic groups are vulnerable for above infections. Mortality in 3 cases was due to mediastinitis and extended space infection. Conclusions: Deep neck space infection is still a challenging disease in otorhinolaryngology. Early surgical drainage remains the main method of treating deep neck abscesses and conservative medical treatment are effective in selective cases that have minimal cellulitis.