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Acute Compartment Syndrome

Increased pressure within a muscle compartment impairs tissue perfusion and requires emergency surgery.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Acil Servis department. Book Appointment →

What is Acute Compartment Syndrome?

Acute compartment syndrome is a condition in which the pressure within the fascial compartment surrounding muscles and nerves rises to a level that impairs perfusion.

Trauma, fractures, tight casts, reperfusion injury and bleeding are the most common causes. It most often occurs in the lower leg and forearm.

Clinical diagnosis is based on the '5Ps' (pain, paresthesias, pallor, paralysis, pulselessness). Delayed treatment leads to irreversible muscle and nerve damage.

Symptoms

Disproportionately severe pain on passive movement
Tense and swollen extremity
Numbness and tingling (paresthesia)
Pallor and coolness
Loss of motor strength
Pulselessness (late sign)

Risk Factors

Long bone fractures (tibia, forearm)
Tight casts and bandages
High-energy blunt trauma
Reperfusion injury (after prolonged ischemia)
Burns and electrical injuries
Anticoagulant use

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Call 112 if severe pain after a fracture is not relieved by analgesics
  • Go to the emergency department if a casted extremity becomes numb or changes color
  • After sports injury, a tense and swollen compartment may need fasciotomy
  • Pain disproportionate to passive movement is an early warning

Treatment Methods

01
Immediate removal of cast and tight bandages
02
Keeping the extremity at heart level
03
Oxygen and fluid therapy
04
Compartment pressure measurement
05
Emergency fasciotomy (definitive treatment)
06
Postoperative wound care and rehabilitation

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Acil Servis department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.