Related Experiment Videos
Lower extremity compartment syndrome resulting from a toddler's bed
1Pediatric Orthopaedics, Altru Clinic, Grand Forks, ND 58206-6003, USA.
Insights
A toddler developed severe leg and foot compartment syndrome after hanging from a bed. Prompt fasciotomies and supportive care led to a full recovery, highlighting environmental hazards for children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Compartment syndrome is a serious condition characterized by increased pressure within a fascial compartment.
- Pediatric environmental hazards can lead to unique and severe injuries.
Observation:
- An 18-month-old boy presented with tense leg and foot compartments after being found hanging from his toddler bed.
- Intraoperative pressures exceeded 100 mm Hg, indicating severe compartment syndrome.
Findings:
- Complete fasciotomies with secondary closure and skin grafting were performed.
- Ankle-foot orthosis and pressure garments were used for post-operative management.
- One-year follow-up revealed normal gait, function, and range of motion.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare cause of pediatric compartment syndrome due to environmental factors.
- Physicians should consider unusual environmental hazards when evaluating pediatric limb injuries.
- Reporting to social services and the Consumer Product Safety Commission is crucial for child safety.
Abstract:
This report recounts an unusual case of compartment syndrome of the leg and foot resulting from hanging on the side of a toddler's bed in a 11/2-year-old boy. Parents apparently found the patient on the side of the bed in the morning. Presentation to hospital revealed obvious tense compartments of the leg and foot. Intraoperative pressures were >100 mm Hg. Complete fasciotomies with secondary closure and skin grafting were performed. An ankle-foot orthrosis was used to prevent progression of ankle equinus. Jobst pressure garments were used to prevent hypertrophic scarring. One-year follow-up showed normal gait, function, and joint range of motion. Social services were consulted and the US Consumer Product Safety Commission was notified. As pediatric physicians, we need to be aware of possible and potential hazards in the child's environment. This case represents a unique case of compartment syndrome related to persistent limb elevation and compression.