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Published on: May 31, 2019
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A Case Report of Acute Compartment Syndrome.
Naomie Devico Marciano1, Keneth Sarpong1, Jonathan Smart1
1University of California, Irvine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Orange, CA.
Summary
Prompt fasciotomy for acute compartment syndrome (ACS) in a crush injury patient led to a good outcome. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for preventing permanent tissue damage and ensuring rapid recovery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Emergency Medicine
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) is a critical surgical emergency.
- Delayed diagnosis and treatment can lead to irreversible tissue damage and limb loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a case of a 64-year-old male with lower extremity ACS following a crush injury.
- To review the clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and treatment of ACS.
- To highlight the importance of early identification and intervention.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a patient presenting >12 hours post-crush injury.
- Clinical examination revealing calf tenderness, decreased sensation, and absent distal pulses.
- Measurement of outer compartment pressure (32 mmHg).
- Emergent fasciotomy of the four compartments of the lower right leg.
Main Results:
- Surgical intervention (fasciotomy) led to improvement in neuromuscular compromise.
- The patient experienced a prompt recovery and was discharged on day five.
- The case underscores the effectiveness of timely intervention in ACS.
Conclusions:
- Early recognition and surgical decompression are vital for managing acute compartment syndrome.
- Fasciotomy is an effective treatment for ACS, improving patient outcomes.
- This case emphasizes the need for prompt diagnosis and management in crush injuries to prevent severe complications.
