[Neuromuscular disorders of the extremities after heroin-induced rhabdomyolysis]

We describe four patients with neuromuscular deficiencies after heroin-induced rhabdomyolysis. Such deficiencies have a good prognosis, but all our patients continued to have sequelae. In an emergency situation one should always consider fasciotomy for acute compartment syndromes. Two of our patients developed a Volkmann's ischemic contracture after acute compartment syndromes. The other two had deficiencies from compression neuropathies. We observed functional restitution over a period of one to two years. Physiotherapy and orthopaedic aids are important in the rehabilitation of these patients. However, the main problem is still their drug addiction.