Gangrene

What caused gangrene in the First World War?

Gangrene is the death of body tissue, and occurs when blood supply cannot reach a wound, causing it to rot and produce a foul-smelling gas. It usually affects extremities such as toes, fingers and limbs.

How did they treat gangrene in the First World War?

The only effective treatment for gangrene was amputation of the affected body part, to prevent it spreading and ultimately causing the patient's death.