[Etiology, pathophysiology and anatomical location of the compartment syndrome]

Tissue pressure elevation may be caused by diminution of the compartment (operative closure of fascial defects, the presence of tight bandages or air-splints or by prolonged localized external pressure, as in unconscious patients), and/or by an increase in its contents (hemorrhage or the various conditions causing increased capillary permeability, e.g. postischemic swelling, fractures, surgical orthopedic procedures) or increased capillary pressure, e.g. after exercises. Additional elevation of an injured limb may cause a compartmental syndrome by lowering capillary pressure, especially in shock patients.