Which Method Is Better to Provide Wound Healing in Fournier Gangrene: Dakin Solution or Conventional Antiseptic Dressings? A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Fournier gangrene is described as necrotizing fasciitis involving the genital, perineal, and perianal area. Early surgical debridement of necrotic tissues, topical therapy, and antibiotics are fundamental in the treatment of Fournier gangrene. We aimed to compare the effects of Dakin solution and povidone iodine solution on patient outcomes by using the Fournier gangrene severity index (FGSI). The demographic data, comorbid diseases, local therapeutic interventions, FGSI, necessity of diverting colostomy or orchiectomy, hospitalization time, number of debridements, complications, and outcomes of 57 patients with Fournier gangrene were retrospectively analyzed. A total of 47 of 57 patients (82.5%) were male, and 10 patients (17.5%) were female, with a mean age of 62.3 ± 13.8 years (range, 27–85 years). The survivors were significantly younger than the nonsurvivors. The mean FGSI score was 4 (range, 1–9) in survivors, and mean FGSI score was 9 (range, 6–10) in nonsurvivors. FGSI score was significantly higher in the mortality group. The median hospital stay was 13 days (range, 3–34 days) in the Dakin solution group and 20 days (range, 1–41 days) in the povidone iodine group. Overall mortality rate was 17.5%. Advanced age had a statistically significant effect on mortality. The hospitalization time was significantly shorter in the Dakin solution group, and use of Dakin solution decreased the number of debridements. Dakin solution has favorable effects on hospital stay and the necessity of multiple debridements. Dakin solution seems to be a good and cost-effective choice for treatment in local wound healing.