“SUB-CUTANEOUS PRESSURE IN CELLULITIS OF THE LEG: CAN IT BE AN INDICATOR FOR EARLY SURGICAL INTERVENTION?"

Abstract

Introduction: Cellulitis is a common skin infection causing inflammation, erythema, and pain in the lower leg. Risk factors include chronic skin diseases, previous cellulitis episodes, and venous insufficiency. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, with hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics in severe cases. Preventative measures include managing skin integrity and treating underlying conditions. Early intervention reduces long-term complications and improves recovery. Aims: The study predicts fasciotomy surgery need in lower limb cellulitis by measuring subcutaneous pressure, comparing to normal, and determining pressure correlation, aiding clinical decision-making, reducing complications, and preventing undiagnosed compartment syndromes. Methodology: A study at Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth, Karad, surveyed 52 patients with unilateral cellulitis of the lower limb below the knee from March 2022 to September 2023, analyzing data for clinical management decisions. Results: The study involved 52 participants aged 20-59 with swelling, pain, and fever as common symptoms. Diabetes was the most common co-morbid condition. Physical signs included swelling, erythema, tenderness, and warmth. Subcutaneous pressure measurements showed significant differences between normal and cellulitis legs, with poor performance across different thresholds. Discussion: The study reveals cellulitis is more common in older individuals, with elevated pressure predicting surgical intervention. High comorbidities complicate management. Common clinical signs and swelling indicate severe cases may require additional surgery. Conclusion: The study suggests that subcutaneous pressure measurements in leg cellulitis can predict early surgical intervention, highlighting the importance of establishing a precise threshold and considering demographic and comorbid conditions.