Gangrene requires urgent evaluation and treatment. In general, dead tissue should be removed to allow healing and prevent further infection. Depending on the area affected, the condition of the patient, and the cause of the gangrene, treatment may include:
An emergency operation to explore or remove dead tissue
Amputating the affected body part
Repeated operations to remove dead tissue (debridement)
An operation to improve blood supply to the area
Antibiotics
Treatment in the intensive care unit (for severely ill patients)
Expectations (prognosis):
The outlook depends on the body part affected, the extent of gangrene, its cause, and the condition of the patient. The patient may die if treatment is delayed, the affected area is extensive, or the patient has other significant medical conditions.
Complications:
Complications depend on the body part affected, the extent of gangrene, its cause, and the condition of the patient. Complications may include:
Disability from amputation or removal of dead tissue
Prolonged wound healing or the need for reconstructive surgery, such as skin grafting
Calling your health care provider:
Call your doctor immediately if:
An area of your skin turns blue or black
You have persistent, unexplained pain in an area
You have persistent, unexplained fever
A wound does not heal or there are frequent sores in an area
There is foul-smelling discharge
Review Date: 8/10/2004
Reviewed By: Updates to specific sections made by Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc. Previously reviewed by Grace Jeon, M.D., M.P.H., General Surgeon, Pasadena, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (11-22-2003).
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