Compartment Syndrome

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Introduction

Compartment syndrome is a severe buildup of pressure in a fascial space, most commonly in the lower leg or forearm.

It is a true orthopedic emergency.

a simple case introducing clincial presentation and calling for a differential diagnosis to get students thinking.

Compartment syndrome results from a viscious cycle.

The most common cause is ischemia followed by reperfusion.

damage - inflammation - swelling and increased pressure - decreased blood flow - ischemia - damage

6P's

Pain with passive movement is among the earliest of signs; the other P's are later.

compartments will feel tense or full.

distal neurological manifestations

A compartment pressure catheter

Compartment syndrome is a diagnosis of exclusion.

A fasciotomy should be done emergently and left open for a few days.

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