Contemporary Management and Outcome After Lower Extremity Fasciotomy in Non-Trauma-Related Vascular Surgery

Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) is a challenging and recognized complication to vascular surgery revascularization. The aim of this study was to investigate the current epidemiology, management, and early outcomes of fasciotomy in vascular surgery.

Retrospective cohort study of all patients undergoing lower extremity fasciotomy at a single university center between January 2008 and December 2014. Patient demographics, operative techniques, and outcomes were analyzed.

The cohort (n = 113 limbs; 107 patients; 48% women; mean age was 74 (12) years [range, 50-97 years]) included 81 (72%) limbs undergoing revascularization for acute limb ischemia, 7 (6.2%) limbs related to acute aortic disease, and 23 (20%) limbs undergoing elective vascular surgery. Five patients underwent bilateral lower extremity fasciotomy. In all, 64 (57%) limbs had signs of ACS and underwent a therapeutic fasciotomy, while 49 (43%) fasciotomies were prophylactic. There were 20 (18%) fasciotomies performed after endovascular interventions. A 4-compartment fasciotomy was performed in 82% (n = 93) of limbs with a double incision technique. Split thickness skin graft was required in 11% (12/112) and vacuum-assisted closure treatment in 11% (12/111). The mean length of stay in hospital was 11 (9) days. Most common complication was lower extremity nerve deficit 32% (33/104) followed by wound infection 30% (32/108). At 30-day follow-up, amputation rate was 13% (14/107 limbs) and mortality 23% (25/107 patients). In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, prophylactic fasciotomy was associated with amputation (odds ratio: 28.9; 95% confidence interval: 1.96-425; P = .014).

Acute compartment syndrome is primarily related to acute ischemic conditions but occurs after both aortic or elective vascular procedures and endovascular treatments. There are significant complications related to lower extremity fasciotomy in vascular surgery.