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Published on: August 8, 2025
Spontaneous compartment syndrome of the upper arm in a patient receiving anticoagulation therapy
David C Zimmerman1, Tushar Kapoor, Mikhail Elfond
1Department of Osteopathic Medicine, Nassau University Medical Center, East Meadow, New York 11544, USA.
Background:
Compartment syndrome is a condition in which elevated pressures within an osseofascial compartment cause vascular compromise, leading to ischemia and possible necrosis. It commonly occurs after a traumatic event (e.g., fracture, crush, burn); however, compartment syndrome can happen spontaneously and in any compartment of the body. The objective of this case study is to present the signs and symptoms of upper arm compartment syndrome along with a review of the diagnosis and treatment.
Case Report:
A 75-year-old man receiving anticoagulation for atrial fibrillation developed compartment syndrome in the extensor compartment of his upper arm, diagnosed by clinical examination with the aid of a venous duplex ultrasound study.
Conclusion:
Although uncommon, spontaneous compartment syndrome can occur, and prompt recognition and intervention are limb- and possibly life-saving.
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Position the patient at a thirty- to forty-five-degree angle or in a semi-fowler's position. Look for the highest point of pulsation in the internal jugular vein and measure the vertical distance to the angle of Loius or sternal angle. A normal JVP is 3-4 cm above the...