[Local complications of snake bites (author's transl)]

Abstract

Morbidity, mortality and local complications of snake bites in the world are discussed. Necrosis follows about 10 p. 100 of snake bites all over the world with important variability from place to place. Aetiologies of necrosis are described. Pharmacology of venoms, local cures and late infections explain diversity of clinical symptomatology of local reactions few of which being severe. Surgical treatment must be applied as soon as possible in a preventive consideration. Local cures such as tourniquet, incision, excision, cauterization, etc., should be abandoned. Local disinfection must be particularly careful treatment of edema or swelling, and antivenom by intravenous route are rather preferable to early surgery. Of course, medical treatment of systemic poisoning will be applied in the same time.