Superficial posterior compartment syndrome of the leg with deep venous compromise. A case report

A 15-year-old boy was struck twice in the calf, developing what appeared initially to be phlebitis and deep venous compromise. Careful clinical examination and compartment pressure measurement revealed the presence of an isolated superficial posterior compartment syndrome. Fasciotomy provided prompt relief. Findings at surgery showed ischemic changes but no necrosis. Venous patency was demonstrated on a subsequent venogram. Recovery was complete. This is the first reported case of isolated traumatic superficial posterior compartment syndrome. It adds to numerous other reports and provides further evidence that compartment syndrome can occur in any myofascial compartment. The concurrent deep venous compromise, although physiologically expected because of pressure differentials, was graphically demonstrated for the first time as well. Its clinical significance is not clear.