Deep neck infections mortal complications: Intrathoracic complications and necrotising fasciitis.

Background: We planned this study considering that complications of deep neck infections can be seriously life threatening.

Aim: To raise awareness that introthoracic complications and necrotizing fasciitis are causes of serious mortality and morbidity.

Methods: This study was carried out with the participation of 188 patients who were treated at Mersin University Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery at January 1, 2024. When the patient files were retrospectively examined, 16 of 188 patients (8.5%) were included in the study because they were observed to have necrotizing fasciitis and/or intrathoracic complications.

Results: There were a total of 16 patients in this study, 9 males (56.25%) and 7 females (43.75%). All patients were adults (> 18 years) and the mean age was 50.37 years ± 15.37 years. Female patients had a mean age of 40.42 years ±13.38 years, whereas for male patients was 58.11 years ± 12.44 years.

Conclusion: Patients with necrotizing fasciitis and/or intrathoracic complications require more complicated and serious surgeries, intensive care unit monitoring, and mechanical ventilator support. Higher rates of morbidity and mortality should be expected in these patients who are hospitalized for longer periods of time.