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Published on: May 31, 2019
Compartment-syndrome of the lower extremity after CABG
F A van den Wildenberg1, P F Houben, J G Maessen
1Department of Surgery, University Hospital Maastricht, The Netherlands.
Insights
Compartment syndrome in the lower extremity can occur after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). This report details three cases, discussing contributing factors and diagnostic and treatment guidelines for this rare complication.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) is a common surgical procedure.
- Compartment syndrome is a serious condition characterized by increased pressure within a muscle compartment.
- Lower extremity complications after CABG are infrequent but can be severe.
Observation:
- Three cases of lower extremity compartment syndrome following CABG are presented.
- The donor leg, often used for saphenous vein harvesting, is the affected site.
- Patients presented with symptoms indicative of acute compartment syndrome.
Findings:
- Specific factors contributing to compartment syndrome in the donor leg post-CABG were identified.
- These factors may include fluid shifts, prolonged immobility, and surgical technique.
- Early diagnosis is crucial for limb salvage.
Implications:
- Highlights a rare but significant complication associated with CABG.
- Provides essential guidelines for the diagnosis and management of lower extremity compartment syndrome in this context.
- Emphasizes the need for vigilance among surgical and critical care teams managing post-CABG patients.
Abstract:
Three cases of compartment-syndrome of the lower extremity are presented as an example of a specific type of compartment syndrome of the donorleg after CABG. The possible factors contributing to this complication are being discussed, and guidelines are given to adequately diagnose and treat this problem.
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