Acute compartment syndrome in forearm fractures

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) in forearm fractures is a severe condition often resulting from high-energy trauma.
• Surgical intervention, including fasciotomy, is critical for limb salvage and function preservation.
• Long-term functional outcomes, particularly nerve recovery, require thorough evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the long-term functional outcomes and nerve recovery in patients treated surgically for acute compartment syndrome in forearm fractures.
• To identify factors influencing neurological recovery and return to occupation after this injury.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study reexamining 16 patients 2-5 years post-surgery for forearm fracture-related ACS.
• Surgical interventions included fracture stabilization and forearm/carpal compartment fasciotomy.
• Nerve function assessments (median and ulnar) were performed during follow-up.

Main Results:

• All patients experienced initial median nerve impairment, with 15 achieving complete recovery.
• Eight patients had initial ulnar nerve impairment, with 2 showing persistent deficits.
• One patient with a nerve tissue defect had ongoing ulnar nerve dysfunction.
• Eight patients returned to their occupation within one year.

Conclusions:

• Surgical treatment for forearm fracture-associated ACS generally leads to good median nerve recovery.
• Persistent ulnar nerve deficits can occur, especially in cases with nerve tissue defects.
• Functional recovery and return to work are variable, influenced by the severity of nerve injury.