Clostridium perfringens wound infection associated with elastic bandages

Abstract

C. perfringens wound infections were associated with the use of nonsterile elastic outer bandages in diabetic patients who underwent lower extremity amputation for vascular insufficiency. In each case, 2nd surgical procedure was required. Elastic bandages similar to those used in these procedures contained C. perfringens and other clostridial species. The need for maintenance of a sterile, nonpermeable inner barrier to prevent transudation of bacteria into the wound exists. The potential benefit of using sterile elastic outer bandages after amputation for vascular insufficiency is discussed.