ABSTRACT

Objective: Deep neck infection (DNI) is defined as an infection that occurs in the potential cavities and fascia of the neck. DNI is an Ear Nose Throat (ENT) emergency that needs to be treated early and effectively. It is important to preserve the airway patency, especially in the follow-up. DNI can be seen in all age groups, which are difficult diagnose due to location differences and have a high risk of complications. Nowadays, odontogenic infections are the most common cause of infections in adults. To investigate the effectiveness of DNI empirical ampicillin sulbactam + clindamycin treatment in adults.

Material and Methods: The information of 36 patients who were hospitalized and treated with the diagnosis of deep neck infection between October 2017 and September 2020 was reached in University of Health Sciences: Adana City Training and Research Hospital ENT outpatient clinic.

Results: The ages of the patients were between 19 and 73, with a mean of 41 ± 14.433. As the age increased, the duration of treatment was prolonged. In empirical treatment, meropenem 1 (2.8%), ertapenem 1 (2.8%), ceftriaxone + metronidazole 6 (16.7%), ampicillin sulbactam + clindamycin 26 (72.2%), ampicillin sulbactam 2 (2%, 8) has been used in the patient. While 30 (83.3%) patients were drained, 6 (16.7%) patients were not drained. The most frequently affected area is the submandibular area (47.2%).

Conclusion: We think that a successful response was obtained from empirical ampicillin sulbactam + clindamycin treatment.

Keywords: Neck, bacterial infections, abscess, anti-bacterial agents, adult