An easy approach to the slit catheter technique in intracompartmental pressure measurement

Herein, we present an easy, well tolerated method for direct measurement of intracompartmental tissue pressures using readily available and relatively inexpensive equipment. This provides objectivation of intracompartmental pressures in situations in which the physical findings are less reliable and allows recording of changes in pressure during the period after the injury occurs. Although final decision for operative decompression should be based on clinical findings as well as on the direct measurements, the increased availability of this monitoring system could allow us to understand better the pathophysiologic basis of compartment syndrome. This would make earlier detection or even prevention of this condition possible.