gangrene /gang″grēn/ [Gk, gangraina, a gnawing sore] , necrosis or death of tissue, usually the result of ischemia (loss of blood supply), bacterial invasion, and subsequent putrefaction. The extremities are most often affected, but it can occur in the intestines and gallbladder. Internally gangrene may be a complication of strangulated hernia, appendicitis, cholecystitis, or thrombosis of the mesenteric arteries to the gut. In all types of gangrene, surgical debridement is necessary to remove the necrotic tissue before healing can progress. Cleanliness and maintenance of good circulation are considerations essential in preventing this condition. See also gas gangrene, open amputation, dry gangrene, moist gangrene. −gangrenous, adj.
