Paraspinal Compartment Syndrome Associated with Opioid Overdose: A Case Report

Compartment syndrome is an emergent condition of increased pressure within a muscle compartment. The paraspinal region is a rare location for compartment syndrome and is typically secondary to exertion, trauma, or surgery.

We present a case of paraspinal compartment syndrome in a patient who presented after fentanyl overdose. This patient was likely exposed to xylazine, also known as "tranq," which may have contributed to his presentation.

Emergency physicians must be aware of paraspinal compartment syndrome to facilitate rapid diagnosis and treatment and prevent associated morbidity and mortality.