Description
Occurs in the extremities, with the lower leg being the most common site. Swelling in an enclosed space of a limb (called a compartment) causes increased pressure and decreased blood flow leading to damage to the tissues. This can result in the death of muscles and nerves. If left untreated, complete paralysis of the affected limb and/or gangrene can develop requiring amputation.
Symptoms
Pain that is out of proportion to the associated injury; numbness, weakness, swelling.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests include: identification of any associated fractures, tests to determine whether circulation or nerve function has been compromised and measurement of the pressure in the compartment.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Compartment pressure measurement
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests include: identification of any associated fractures, tests to determine whether circulation or nerve function has been compromised and measurement of the pressure in the compartment.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Compartment pressure measurement
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery
Treatment
Treatment needs to be provided emergently and consists of surgical opening of the compartment to relieve the pressure (fasciotomy).