A CLINICAL STUDY AND MANAGEMENT OF SNAKEBITE CELLULITIS – A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Snake bite is a neglected public health issue in many tropical and subtropical countries. In Asia up to 2 million people are envenomed by snakes each year. A single centre study was planned to assess the incidence, clinical features, and management of snakebite cellulitis. 

Materials and methods: This present one-year prospective study was conducted in the Department of Surgery, Government Mohan Kumara Mangalam Medical College Hospital, Salem. This includes 100 cases of snakebite cellulitis and its outcome were studied in one year period.

Results: Out of 100 snakebite cellulitis 57 were males and 43 were females. In this study common age groups were between 20-30 years (24%),30-40years (17%), 40-50years(30%), 50-60years (14%). Majority of patients (73%) had snakebite on lower limbs. Patients improved from conservative treatment (76%). Patients developed compartment syndrome (24%) and underwent fasciotomy (24%) followed by wound debridement (9%), amputation (6%).

Conclusion: The present study shows high incidence of cellulitis with snakebite and development of compartment syndrome and need of interventions like fasciotomy, wound debridement, and amputation. So, in any case of snakebite, we should take the proper precautionary measures to prevent cellulitis by early administration of ASV. If cellulitis has already formed, then it should be treated without delay to prevent compartment syndrome and limb loss and other morbidities.