Approach to Deep Neck Infections: A Single-Center Experience

Objective: The aim of this retrospective study is to describe the clinical features and management of patients diagnosed with deep neck infection (DNI) and hospitalized in our clinic, and to share our experience, together with a review of the current literature. Methods: Patients who were diagnosed with DNI and treated in our clinic between January 2020 and June 2025 were retrospectively analyzed. Inclusion criteria: age > 18 years, complete medical records, diagnosis confirmed by clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings. Exclusion criteria: immunosuppressed patients, missing data, and pediatric cases. Diagnosis was based on clinical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging. Intravenous antibiotics were administered to all patients: incision and drainage or repeated aspiration was performed when abscesses were detected. Patients were followed for at least 3 months after discharge. Results: Sixty-two patients, 36 male and 26 female, were included in the study. Analysis of the etiological factors causing DNI revealed that 25 (40%) cases were odontogenic in origin and 19 (30.6%) derived from tonsillitis. Surgical drainage was required in 50% of patients. The overall complication rate was 9.7%, and no mortality occurred. Conclusion: Odontogenic infections were the leading cause of DNIs, followed by tonsillitis. Complete recovery was achieved with antibiotics alone in 50% of patients, and surgical intervention was successful in all remaining cases, resulting in 100% overall cure without recurrence. Early diagnosis and prompt combined management are key to excellent outcomes.