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Case Report: Limb salvage in Vibrio vulnificus necrotizing fasciitis through sequential debridement and skin grafting

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background Vibrio vulnificus ( V . vulnificus ) is a highly aggressive pathogen that causes rapidly progressing necrotizing fasciitis and septic shock, frequently leading to limb amputation or death. Limb salvage in this setting remains challenging, particularly in diabetic patients. Case presentation A 72-year-old diabetic male developed V . vulnificus necrotizing fasciitis of the left upper limb after handling marine fish, presenting with local erythema, swelling, warmth, pain, and septic shock. He underwent five sequential debridement procedures combined with vacuum sealing drainage (VSD), followed by artificial dermis application and split-thickness skin grafting, ultimately achieving successful limb salvage. Conclusion In this patient, serial reassessment, staged debridement with VSD, and delayed wound reconstruction were associated with infection control and limb preservation. This case may inform the multidisciplinary management of severe V. vulnificus necrotizing fasciitis.

Source: Frontiers in Surgery

DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2026.1944678