Use of rectal catheter prevents diversion colostomy in a patient with Fournier’s Gangrene

A 74-year-old male patient presented to the emergency department with the clinical symptoms of Fournier’s Gangrene. He was immediately transferred to the OR where aggressive surgical debridement followed. After a week of surgical debridement, a colostomy that would facilitate the healing process was debated but decided against due to the poor physical status of the patient. A rectal catheter (ActiFlo®, Hollister Inc) was inserted in order to divert faeces from the infected area. Three ActiFlo® devices were placed successively in a three-month period, after which the patient was discharged, completely healed and with no consequences to his sphincteric function.