The Unusual Presence of Gas From a Puncture Wound: A Case Report.

Abstract

The presence of gas within soft tissues as suggested by plain film radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging is usually sufficient evidence for a gas-producing bacterial infection. A thorough clinical examination and history and tissue culture are necessary to better determine the source of the gas. However, despite the unremarkable physical examination findings, the present case of a plantar puncture wound rapidly developed gas in the tissues and warranted surgical exploration and repair. Delaying treatment in any case of potential gas gangrene can be limb- and life-threatening. Only later was it revealed by the patient's husband that the wound might have been contaminated soon after the injury from a source other than the puncture, which led to the early presentation of gas on the imaging studies.