A 37-year-old man develops severe arm pain, swelling, and crepitus after blunt trauma. What factor is key to survival in this case of necrotizing Myositis?
A 37-year-old man presented to the emergency department with a 1-week history of pain and swelling in the left upper arm that had started after blunt trauma during soccer practice. The heart rate was 120 beats per minute, the blood pressure 96/54 mm Hg, and the body temperature 37.9°C. Examination of the left upper arm was notable for swelling, tenderness, and crepitus. The overlying skin was red and warm to the touch. An initial radiograph is shown. Which of the following factors is most associated with increased mortality in this diagnosis?
What is the most likely diagnosis?
Crepitus, Delay in surgical intervention >24 hours, Gas Gangrene, Necrotizing Myositis, Surgical Debridement
