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    Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2006 Dec;135(6):889-93.

    Head and neck space infections.

    Larawin V, Naipao J, Dubey SP.

    Department of Ear, Nose, and Throat, Port Moresby General Hospital, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Papua, New Guinea.

    OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence, causes, management, and complications of the different head and neck space infections in a Melanesian population. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: We conducted a retrospective study in a tertiary referral and teaching hospital. RESULTS: Of the total 103 patients with deep neck space infections (DNSI), odontogenic causes and suppurative lymphadenitis were responsible in 62 (60%) patients. A wide range of DNSI was encountered in our series. Ludwig's angina was the most commonly encountered infection seen in 38 (37%) patients, whereas prevertebral abscess was only seen in 1 (1%) patient. A combination of surgical drainage and medical treatment was the main mode of treatment. Nine (8.7%) patients with DNSI with upper airway obstruction underwent tracheostomy; 9 (8.7%) patients with DNSI succumbed to their infection. CONCLUSION: DNSI needs early detection and aggressive management in order to evade dreaded complications.

    PMID: 17141079 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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