ePoster
Presentation Description
Institution: Ballarat Base Hospital - VIC, Australia
Upper limb necrotising fasciitis (NF) is a rapidly progressive, life-and-limb-threatening soft tissue infection with substantial morbidity. Methamphetamine-associated NF commonly originates from injection sites. Retention of glass-pipe fragments is an under-recognised risk-factor. Its infrequency, combined with atypical presentations and limited healthcare engagement, may result in diagnostic delays with significant consequences.
Case Report:
A 32-year-old woman presented with rapidly progressive cutaneous necrosis, escalating pain, and swelling of the right-index-finger(RIF) and left thumb. She was hypotensive, tachycardic and afebrile. She reported methamphetamine use five days prior, during which a glass pipe shattered in both hands, resulting in retained glass fragments. Initial healthcare contact was deferred until symptom exacerbation. Urgent surgical exploration and debridement was undertaken.
Necrosis extended into deep fascial planes with liquefactive destruction of extensor tendon, and early erosion of the RIF proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ). Definitive source control necessitated sharp fascial dissection, excision of necrotic extensor apparatus and disarticulation of RIF at the PIPJ. Extensive debridement preserved osseous and articular structures in the left thumb.
The patient’s postoperative course included targeted antibiotic therapy and multidisciplinary rehabilitation. At one-month, functional impairment persisted due to the digit amputation. Wounds were otherwise satisfactory.
Conclusion:
This case highlights the complex interplay of methamphetamine use, delayed presentation, and the insidious presence of retained glass pipe fragments in upper limb NF. The rarity of this unique risk factor, serving as a nidus for retained infection, may delay diagnosis and management. Despite adequate source control, the resultant amputation imparts profound functional morbidity. Recognition of retained glass as a distinct etiological factor may facilitate timely and appropriate surgical management in a high-risk patient cohort.
Presenters
Authors
Authors
Dr Rishi Kumar - , Mr Amir Tadros -
