The Diagnostics and Treatment of Acute Mediastinitis: A Single-Centre Experience in Vietnam

Background: Acute mediastinitis is a life-threatening condition requiring urgent intervention. Objectives: This study aims to describe the clinical, laboratory, imaging, and microbiological characteristics, as well as treatment outcomes, of acute mediastinitis cases. Methods: A retrospective, descriptive study was conducted on 32 patients treated at the University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City from February 2016 to April 2024. Data were collected on patient demographics, clinical features, laboratory results, imaging findings, microbiological cultures, and treatment outcomes. Results: The mean age was 55.7 years, with males comprising 59.4% of cases. Fever and chest pain were the most common symptoms. Staphylococcus aureus was the most frequently identified organism. Computed tomography (CT) scans typically showed mediastinal air-fluid levels and fat stranding. Surgical interventions included neck drainage and thoracotomy. Complications included severe sepsis, septic shock, and pneumonia, with a mortality rate of 9.4%. Conclusions: Acute mediastinitis predominantly affects older males and presents significant clinical and diagnostic challenges. Effective multidisciplinary management is crucial for improving patient outcomes. This study provides valuable insights into the characteristics and treatment of acute mediastinitis in a Southeast Asian region.