Early management and physiologic changes in crush syndrome

Crush syndrome is a predictable sequence of events following crush injury. Significant soft tissue injury predisposes the patient to multiple complications including: hypovolemia, compartment syndrome, rhabdomyolysis, electrolyte and acidbase imbalances, coagulopathy, and renal failure. This article identifies those physiologic changes and the associated critical care management of the patient. Critical care management should be aimed at minimizing further complications through accurate assessment and therapeutic interventions.