OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to describe the pen-operative complications of Fournier's gangrene in series of patients.

METHODOLOGY: A descriptive study was done using cross-sectional study design among patients diagnosed with Fournier's gangrene from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2013. All patients regardless of age with extensive infection of the scrotum, genitalia, or perineum who underwent debridement and wide surgical excision of scrotal and/or perineal necrosis along with other involved areas and diagnosed with Fournier's gangrene postoperatively within the study period at JRRMMC was included in the study.

RESULTS: The study included 25 patients. Of these, 48% (12/25) of subjects with Fournier's gangrene had perioperative complication. Results also showed that number of hospital stay ranged from less than 24 hours to 42 days (mean of 10.5 days). Distribution of subjects by etiologic cause of Fournier's gangrene showed that majority of the etiologic cause of Fournier's gangrene were colorectal with 68% (17/25). Genital cause only comprised 32% (8/25) of the etiologic cause of Fournier's gangrene. The most frequent predisposing factor identified was diabetes mellitus.

CONCLUSION: Fournier's gangrene remains a surgical and urological emergency. Many patients may present with only minor skin lesions in the early stages of the disease. Rapid and accurate diagnosis remains a key component in achieving a successful outcome.