Surgery treatment of phlegmon

Surgical interventions in the inpatient department are covered by the loyalty program, which makes treatment even more affordable.

Phlegmon is an acute purulent inflammation of the subcutaneous fat tissue. It can develop in any area of the body: leg, arm, abdomen, back, neck, or face, as well as on the surface of internal organs.

Unlike an abscess, phlegmon has no clear boundaries and can grow to large sizes. At the same time, the inflammation does not affect the upper layers of the skin but develops in the deeper layers (dermis and hypodermis) and can spread to muscles and tendons. Gradually, the inflammation leads to destruction and necrosis of the affected tissues.

Most often, phlegmon is treated surgically. The purulent focus is opened and cleaned, and the damaged tissues are removed. After surgery, anti-inflammatory therapy is prescribed. At early stages, conservative treatment may be possible, but at this time patients rarely seek qualified medical care.

At «Oxford Medical», removal of phlegmon is performed mainly using minimally invasive techniques. In cases of soft tissue involvement, the operation is performed under local anesthesia in the conditions of a day hospital. Phlegmons of internal organs require more complex operations. Depending on the location of the pathological focus, it can be performed using endoscopic, laparoscopic, or laparotomic (open access) methods.

Most often, phlegmon requires surgical intervention. At early stages, drug therapy may be applied, but since symptoms are mild during this period, patients usually do not seek medical attention.

At the onset of the disease, only local symptoms appear — hyperemia (skin redness and local increase in temperature), tissue swelling, a feeling of fullness and pain. The area of inflammation has no clear boundaries and gradually increases. The diameter of phlegmons can reach 5, 10, or more centimeters. If the affected area is near a joint, its function may be impaired (for example, it becomes difficult to bend the wrist or put weight on the ankle).

Deterioration of general health, fever, and the appearance of other symptoms occur with body intoxication. This develops when the purulent process goes deep, spreads to a large area of the skin, or has several foci. With the development of a large phlegmon, due to toxic effects, the respiratory and cardiovascular systems may also suffer, causing shortness of breath and changes in heart rate.

When inflammation of the internal organs’ adipose tissue occurs, such as in phlegmonous cholecystitis, external symptoms may be absent, but organ function disorders and severe intoxication may develop. In such cases, the disease can only be diagnosed using instrumental diagnostics.

The earlier the patient seeks a surgeon, the easier the treatment may be and the lower the risk of complications.

During surgery, the surgeon opens the phlegmon, cleans it of accumulated pus and necrotic tissues. After that, the wound is washed, drainage is placed, and a sterile dressing is applied. The next day, the wound is re-examined and, if necessary, cleaned again from pus and treated with an antiseptic. On average, dressings are changed within 3–7 days until the wound begins to heal.

If the patient’s general condition is satisfactory, treatment can be carried out on an outpatient basis, but with severe intoxication, hospitalization is required.

Removal of phlegmon of internal organs is a more complex task. The patient is hospitalized and surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The method of surgical intervention depends on the location of the phlegmon and the affected organ. Surgeons at «Oxford Medical» mainly use minimally invasive techniques. They allow minimizing damage to healthy tissues, reducing the risk of postoperative complications, and facilitating the rehabilitation period.

In addition to surgical treatment, the patient is prescribed antibiotic therapy to eliminate the infection and other drugs based on his condition.

«Oxford Medical» has a modern high-tech surgery department. It is equipped with expert-class diagnostic and surgical equipment that allows for the most accurate examinations and operations of any complexity. Thanks to this, as well as the work of a team of highly qualified surgeons, each patient receives medical care in accordance with world standards.

The cost of treating phlegmon can vary significantly depending on its location, stage, and the required operation. You can find out the prices of treatment at «Oxford Medical» here.

Only a surgeon can provide a more accurate price, taking into account the diagnosis, after conducting an examination and, if necessary, performing tests and hardware examinations. Make an appointment with a doctor at a time convenient for you.

You can make an appointment with a surgeon by calling the numbers listed on the website or using the online application form.