Complications
May be the result of inadequate drainage or antibiotic treatment. Re-drain as necessary.
Infection can develop into cervical necrotizing fasciitis, which can spread inferiorly causing mediastinitis.
The patient should be admitted to the intensive care unit and an infectious disease specialist consulted for management options.
Due to spontaneous rupture or inadequate drainage.
The patient should be admitted to the intensive care unit and ventilated as necessary.
Due to superior spread of infection.
The patient should be admitted to the intensive care unit and an infectious disease specialist consulted for management options.
Due to inferior spread of infection.
The patient should be evaluated by a cardiothoracic surgeon and an intensivist.
Due to inferior spread of infection.
The patient should be admitted to the intensive care unit and an infectious disease specialist consulted for management options.
Cardiology review if cardiac compromise occurs.
Due to inferior spread of infection.
The patient should be admitted to the intensive care unit; a chest drain may be required.
Due to inferior spread of infection.
Antibiotic treatment should be prolonged and surgical drainage performed if necessary.
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