Compartment Syndrome Flashcards
What is the etiology of Comp Syn
caused by either an increase in volume in the compartment or a decrease in compartment size
What can cause a decrease in compartment size
burns
dressings that are too tight
fascial defects
What can cause an increase in volume
trauma like contusions, fractures, crushing injuries and surgery
What is the pathology of comp syn
Injury causes inflammation, edema, hemorrhage which leads to
- compression of the adjacent arteries causing ischemia and cellular hypoxia leading to necrosis
- compression of adjacent nerves, reducing
sensation and movement
What are the mani’s of comp syn
Pain unrelieved with pain medication Paralysis of limb Paresthesia Pallor Pulselessness
What are the treatments
conservative measures like removing tight dressings dont work, then a fasciotomy is done
What are risks with a fasciatomy
infection and how it will heal
What is something to note about comp syn
Neurovascular injury from inflammation may occur in the absence of compartment syndrome
