Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 16, 2026

Synergizing Antegrade Endoscopic with Bridging Vein Harvesting for Improvement of Great Saphenous Vein Graft Quality from the Lower Leg
Published on: November 19, 2019
Acute Lower Leg Compartment Syndrome: A Rare Complication following CABG
1Wellington Regional Hospital, Capital and Coast District Health Board, Wellington 6021, New Zealand.
Insights
Compartment syndrome in the lower legs is a rare complication after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Prompt identification is crucial to prevent long-term disability from this condition.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Critical Care Medicine
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Compartment syndrome of the lower legs is an uncommon complication post-coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).
- It arises from a complex interplay of local and systemic factors.
- Timely diagnosis is essential for favorable patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the rare occurrence of lower leg compartment syndrome following CABG.
- To emphasize the importance of early recognition and management.
- To discuss the potential for long-term disability if diagnosis and treatment are delayed.
Main Methods:
- Case report presentation.
- Review of relevant medical literature on post-CABG complications.
- Analysis of clinical presentation and diagnostic challenges.
Main Results:
- The presented case illustrates a rare instance of compartment syndrome in the lower legs after CABG.
- Delayed recognition contributed to significant long-term functional impairment.
- The etiology involves a multifactorial combination of local and systemic influences.
Conclusions:
- Lower leg compartment syndrome is a rare but serious complication of CABG.
- Vigilance for early signs and symptoms is paramount for surgical and critical care teams.
- Prompt intervention is necessary to mitigate the risk of permanent disability.
Abstract:
Compartment syndrome of lower legs following coronary artery bypass grafting is a rare complication which results from a combination of local and systemic factors. Early recognition is vital for good outcome. The case discussed describes this rare complication of CABG resulting in long term disability.
Related Concept Videos
Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management
Peripheral Arterial Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Evaluation
Peripheral Artery Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Peripheral Artery Disease IV: Nursing Management
Assessment of the Cardiovascular System III: Palpation
Jugular Venous Pressure (JVP) Measurement
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...
Peripheral Artery Disease I: Introduction

