Examinations for Gangrene

In order to determine if you have gangrene, beside the self-diagnosis of experiencing the symptoms, the hospital that you go to may do any of the following tests:

  • The health-care provider may ask you about any history of injury, chronic diseases (such as diabetes), surgery, cigarette smoking, and exposure to extreme cold.
  • Physical examination of the affected area is performed to look for signs of gangrene.
  • Blood test results show an increase in the number of white blood cells in persons with wet gangrene.
  • A sample of the drainage from the wound is examined to identify the bacteria causing the infection.
  • An x-ray film may be performed to examine the affected tissue for the presence of gas bubbles.
  • Imaging studies, including a CT scan and/or MRI, can help determine the extent of damage to the tissues and the amount of gas present.
  • In people with dry gangrene, an arteriogram may be performed to visualize any obstruction in the artery which supplies blood to the affected part.

Treatments

People with gangrene require urgent assessment and treatment to prevent the spread of gangrene. Antibiotics and surgery are the primary treatments and have been proven very effective. Hospitalization is obviously necessary for treatment.

If diagnosed with Dry Gangrene:

Because the cause of dry gangrene is a lack of blood flow, restoring the blood supply is vital. Assessment by a vascular surgeon can help determine whether surgical intervention to restore blood supply would be beneficial.

If diagnosed with Wet Gangrene:

Surgical debridement (or removal of dead tissue) of the wound is performed, and intravenous antibiotics are administered to control the infection.

Medication

When diagnosed with Gangrene, any of the following may be administered while at the hospital:
  • Antibiotics are usually administered intravenously to control the infection.
  • Pain relievers are administered as necessary.
  • Anticoagulants are administered to prevent blood clotting.
  • Intravenous fluids are administered to replenish electrolytes.