Wound necrosis caused by the venom of stingrays. Pathological findings and surgical management.

Two cases of stingray injury which caused extensive tissue necrosis are reported. In one patient, the wound was allegedly inflicted by Dasyatis kuhlii, the blue-spotted stingray; in the other, by D. sephen, the cowtail ray. After excision of necrotic tissue, the wounds healed rapidly and without complications. Wound exploration and debridement of dead tissue are indicated in at least some stingray injuries, particularly when first-aid measures, such as early immersion in hot water or irrigation of the wound have not been carried out.