CLOSTRIDIAL INFECTION FOLLOWING SEVERE FACIAL TRAUMA

Severe postraumatic wound infections are uncommon occurrences in the c raniofacial region. Although most reported cases have occurred followi ng an odontogenic infection or minor soft-tissue trauma, the potential for the development of this type of infection exists following comple x facial fractures. We report a case with clostridial infection in the temporalis fascia complicating a complex facial fracture. The implica tions regarding antibiotic usage and delay of surgical treatment are d iscussed.