Letter to the Editor

Use of Cryotherapy to Isolate Infected Extremities During Amputation

Authors: Robert L. Prosser, Jr, MD

Abstract

To the Editor: Patients with gangrenous or necrotizing infections of the extremities causing hemodynamic instability can often be resuscitated before amputation by using cryotherapy to isolate the infection from the circulation. 1 The extremity is packed in dry ice (frozen carbon dioxide), the patient is adequately resuscitated, and amputation can be safely delayed until the patient is stable enough to tolerate unrushed surgery.

This content is limited to qualifying members.

Existing members, please login first

If you have an existing account please login now to access this article or view purchase options.

Purchase only this article ($25)

Create a free account, then purchase this article to download or access it online for 24 hours.

Purchase an SMJ online subscription ($75)

Create a free account, then purchase a subscription to get complete access to all articles for a full year.

Purchase a membership plan (fees vary)

Premium members can access all articles plus recieve many more benefits. View all membership plans and benefit packages.

References

1. Winburn GB, Wood MC, Hawkins ML, et al. Current role of cryoamputation. Am J Surg1991;162647–650.
 
2. Majeski JA, John JF. Necrotizing soft tissue infections: a guide to early diagnosis and initial therapy.South Med J 2003;96:900 –905.