Role of a Plastic Surgeon in the Management of Local Manifestations of Snakebite in a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Prospective Single-Center Case Series

Abstract

Background There is a paucity of literature regarding the management of snakebite site complications. The wound complications can have debilitating sequelae, most of which may require reconstruction. Methods This is a prospective single-institution observational study conducted from November 2019 to December 2021. Patient demographic characteristics and snakebite-related information, length of hospitalization, surgical lesions encountered, the type of treatment offered, and complications were recorded. Results Fifteen patients (10 males and 5 females) with ages ranging from 10 to 53 years (mean: 36.5 years) were included in the study. Urgent fasciotomy was performed in three patients with compartment syndrome of the upper limb. Facial reconstruction was performed in one patient. One patient required distraction, cross-finger flap, and bone grafting of the index finger, while another patient required a pedicled groin flap for digital salvage. Below knee amputation was done for Marjolin's ulcer in a chronic snakebite case. Few patients required skin grafting. No major complications were encountered. Conclusions Plastic surgeons play an important role in the management of bite site effects for restoration of form and function, which goes a long way in rehabilitating these patients back in the society. This case series presents a varied range of bite site complications and their management that would serve as a guide to plastic surgeons for better outcome.