Flesh Eating Bacteria – Something from a horror film or a horrifying reality for sufferers?

Flesh Eating Bacteria or necrotizing fasciitis (NF), is a rare, but extremely serious condition that affects an estimated 500 people in the UK each year. Necrotizing fasciitis carries a significant threat of death, and, once diagnosed, requires immediate medical attention. Mortality rates have been estimated between 20%-40%, although a study conducted from 2002-2003 found the mortality rate to be 26.6%*.

Dog Bites – Reconstructive and Plastic Surgery

It is estimated that around 200,000 people in the UK are bitten by dogs each year and despite changes in the dog ownership laws; this number has been steadily rising since 2007. Although the majority do not require serious medical attention, 6,000 people are admitted to hospitals in England every year with injuries sustained by dog bites. When such injuries are sustained the medical care required can be extremely specialist, and patients are often referred to plastic surgeons for reconstructive or plastic surgery.