Well Leg Compartment Syndrome After Abdominal Surgery
Jens Krogh Christoffersen1, Lars Dahlgaard Hove1,2, Kim Lyngby Mikkelsen1
1Danish Patient Compensation Association, Kalvebod Brygge 45, 1560, Copenhagen V, Denmark.
World Journal of Surgery
|September 4, 2016
Summary
Well leg compartment syndrome (WLCS) following abdominal surgery requires prompt recognition. Prolonged surgery increases WLCS severity, emphasizing the need for vigilant observation and preventative measures during and after procedures.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Complications
- Vascular Surgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Well leg compartment syndrome (WLCS) is a recognized complication following abdominal surgery.
- Identifying risk factors and outcomes is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify risk factors for and outcomes of well leg compartment syndrome (WLCS) after abdominal surgery.
- To evaluate cases from Danish registries and existing literature.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of prospective claims to the Danish Patient Compensation Association (DPCA) from 1996-2013.
- Evaluation of literature cases from 1970-2013 and Danish National Patient Register (DNPR) data from 1999-2008.
Main Results:
- 68% of cases involved legs supported under the knees during surgery.
- Symptoms often presented within 2 hours post-surgery; diagnostic delay averaged 10 hours.
- Increased duration of abdominal surgery correlated with diagnostic delay and more severe outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Standard observation for WLCS within 24 hours after prolonged abdominal surgery (>4 hours) is recommended.
- Calf pain is indicative of WLCS; elevated serum CK can aid diagnosis.
- Preventative measures include broad leg support and position changes during surgery.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management
510
During the postoperative period, it is crucial to focus on maintaining circulation, identifying and managing potential complications, and planning for discharge.Nursing AssessmentVital signs monitoring: Regularly monitor vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature, to detect early signs of complications such as bleeding and infection.Circulation assessment: Monitor pulses, perform Doppler assessments, and check capillary refill, color, temperature, and...
510
01:26Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy
961
Sigmoidoscopy and laparoscopy are distinct medical procedures that enable physicians to internally inspect different parts of the GI tract. Although they serve different purposes, each is essential for diagnosing and, in some cases, treating various medical conditions.
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
961
01:26Varicose Veins I: Introduction
301
Varicose veins, or varicosities, are abnormally dilated and twisted superficial veins caused by venous valve incompetence. This condition commonly affects the lower extremities, especially the saphenous veins, due to the higher pressure from prolonged standing and walking. However, varicosities can also occur in other areas, such as the esophagus, vulva, spermatic cords, and anorectal region.Etiology and typesPrimary varicose veins, often idiopathic, are more common in women due to inherent...
301
01:29Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
710
Diagnosing and managing appendicitis requires a structured and comprehensive approach that spans from initial assessment to postoperative care. Here is an overview of the process:
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
710
01:19Abdominal Regions and Quadrants
19.1K
To promote clear communication, for instance, about the location of a patient's abdominal pain or a suspicious mass, anatomists and clinicians typically use imaginary lines to categorize the abdominopelvic cavity into either four quadrants or nine regions to identify organs in the cavity.
The simpler quadrants approach, which is more commonly used in medicine, subdivides the cavity with one horizontal and one vertical line that intersects at the patient's umbilicus (navel). The four...
The simpler quadrants approach, which is more commonly used in medicine, subdivides the cavity with one horizontal and one vertical line that intersects at the patient's umbilicus (navel). The four...
19.1K
01:26Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
279
Varicose veins, or varicosities, develop when the valves in the veins, which control blood flow, weaken or damage. It causes blood to pool and the veins to enlarge. Understanding the clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and management options for varicose veins is crucial for effective treatment and relief.Clinical manifestationsClinical manifestations of varicose veins include a heavy, achy feeling or pain after prolonged standing or sitting. This discomfort can often be relieved by...
279