Compartment syndromes of the lower limb

Compartment syndromes of the lower limb occur as an over-use type injury in athletes resulting in a chronic compartment syndrome. Alternatively they may occur as a result of trauma to the limb in the form of soft tissue injury or a closed fracture resulting in an acute compartment syndrome. Chronic compartment syndromes present as pain in the lower legs during exercise and are relieved after a variable period of rest. Diagnosis is aided by intracompartmental pressure monitoring during exercise and if symptoms have persisted for longer than 6 months treatment is by means of a subcutaneous fasciotomy. Acute compartment syndromes are relatively rare and often difficult to diagnose. If unrecognized they may lead to significant limb morbidity in the form of paraesthesia and muscle weakness. Diagnosis once again may be aided by intracompartmental pressure monitoring. Once the diagnosis has been made urgent surgical decompression in the form of an open fasciotomy is mandatory.