[Compartment syndrome of the pelvis]

In the pelvic region three major compartments (gluteus medius-minimus, gluteus maximus and iliopsoas) can be distinguished from the smaller compartment of the tensor fasciae latae muscle. Pelvic compartment syndromes are rare. A clear history of trauma is often lacking. Association with drug and alcohol abuse is common as well as an association with the widespread use of anticoagulant therapy. From 1982 to 1988 six acute buttock compartment syndromes were treated in the Trauma Department of Hannover Medical School. In five patients fasciotomy of the gluteal compartment was performed. Two patients with a compartment syndrome secondary to necrotising fasciitis died of septic multiple organ failure. The mean follow-up of the four other patients was 29 months (7-48 months). Three of these four patients revealed a decrease of gluteal muscle volume. Ergometric tests showed a decrease in gluteal muscle strength in all patients.