Gangrene overview
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Gangrene overview On the Web |
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American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Gangrene overview |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Gangrene is a complication of necrosis (i.e., cell death) characterized by the decay of body tissues, which become black and malodorous. It is caused by infection or ischemia, such as from thrombosis (blocked blood vessel). It is usually the result of critically insufficient blood supply (e.g., peripheral vascular disease) and is often associated with diabetes and long-term smoking. This condition is most common in the lower extremities. The best treatment for gangrene is revascularization (i.e., restoration of blood flow) of the affected organ, which can reverse some of the effects of necrosis and allow healing. Other treatments include debridement and surgical amputation. The method of treatment is generally determined depending on location of affected tissue and extent of tissue loss. Gangrene may appear as one effect of foot binding.
Historical Perspective
The etymology of gangrene derives from the Latin word "gangraena" and from the Greek gangraina (γάγγραινα), which means "putrefaction of tissues".
Classification
Overview
Three main types of gangrene in clude wet, dry and gas gangrene. Sometimes it can be classified according to its site.