Sixteen cases of scrotal gangrene are presented. The aetiology, environmental factors and pattern of clinical presentation are described. A total reconstruction of the scrotal sac in all cases as practised in Ife is described. It is advocated that surgeons in the tropics should, in spite of various constraints, try to salvage any infected testis before considering orchidectomy. Infective gangrene of the scrotum is considered a more suitable diagnostic label than Fournier's gangrene.