Clostridium Perfringens Gas Gangrene Complicating an Open Fracture of the Forearms: A Case Report

Introduction and importance: Gas gangrene is a rare and severe complication that can be life-critical for the patient or functional for the limb. We report a case of gas gangrene complicating an open fracture of both forearm bones treated traditionally. The aim of our case report is to highlight the bad prognosis of gas gangrene in the soft tissue of the limbs. Case presentation: This was a 19-year-old patient with an open fracture of both forearm bones that occurred during a football match. The fracture had been treated traditionally with clay, and had progressed to gas gangrene with myonecrosis of the anterior and posterior compartment muscles. An X-ray of the left forearm showed a fracture of both bones of the left forearm, with gas bubbles trailing down the soft tissue of the forearm. The diagnosis of gas gangrene complicating an open fracture of both bones of the left forearm was confirmed. Emergency amputation was necessary to save the patient from severe sepsis. Clinical Discussion: open fractures of the limbs, which appear benign but can develop into a serious problem such as gas gangrene. Early diagnosis and appropriate surgical treatment will improve vital prognosis and reduce functional sequelae. Amputation may be a life-saving alternative in extreme cases where it is impossible to save the limb. Conclusion: gas gangrene is a rare injury, but a serious one because of the risk of mutilation it can cause. It is very tragic to see an open fracture of the forearm progress to amputation of the limb.