Highlights & Basics
- Compartment syndrome of the extremities is a surgical emergency that results from increased interstitial pressure in closed osteofascial compartments.
- Can be caused by fracture, compartment hemorrhage, direct soft-tissue injury, or direct muscular injury.
- High index of suspicion and early recognition are crucial.
- Palpable pulses distal to the involved compartment do not rule out compartment syndrome.
- In cases of acute extremity compartment syndrome and where the clinical diagnosis is clear, fasciotomy is mandatory to prevent muscle ischemia and rhabdomyolysis.
Quick Reference
History & Exam
Key Factors
Other Factors
Diagnostics Tests
Treatment Options
Definition
Epidemiology
Etiology
Pathophysiology
Citations
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Major Extremity Trauma and Rehabilitation Consortium. Diagnosis and management of acute compartment syndrome. Sep 2019 [internet publication].[Full Text]
British Orthopaedic Association. Diagnosis and management of compartment syndrome of the limbs. 2015 [internet publication].[Full Text]
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