The Assessment and Management of Deep Neck Space Infections: a
Systematic Review and Qualitative Evidence Synthesis
Abstract
Objectives To summarise current practices in the diagnosis and
management of Deep Neck Space Infections (DNSIs) To inform future
studies in developing a framework in the management of DNSIs Design This
review was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021226449) and reported in line
with PRISMA guidelines. All studies from 2000 that reported the
investigation or management of DNSI were included. The search was
limited to English language only. Databases searched included AMED,
Embase, Medline and HMIC. Quantitative analysis was undertaken with
descriptive statistics and frequency synthesis with 2 independent
reviewers. A qualitative narrative synthesis was conducted using a
thematic analysis approach. Setting Secondary or Tertiary Care centres
that undertook management of Deep Neck Space Infections. Participants
All adult patients with a deep neck space infection. Main outcome
measures The role of imaging, radiologically guided aspiration and
surgical drainage in DNSIs. Results 60 studies were reviewed. 31 studies
reported on imaging modality, 51 studies reported treatment modality.
Aside from a single RCT all other studies were observational (n=25) or
case series (n=36). CT was used to diagnose DNSI in 78% of patients,
Mean percentage of management with open surgical drainage was 81% and
29.4% for radiologically guided aspiration. Qualitative analysis
identified 7 major themes were identified on DNSI. Conclusion There are
limited methodologically rigorous studies investigating DNSIs. CT
imaging was the most used imaging modality. Surgical drainage was
commonest treatment choice. Areas of further research on epidemiology,
reporting guidelines and management are required.