compartment syndrome

Question 1

what is compartment syndrome?

Answer 1

1. critical pressure increase within a fascial compartment
2. occurs following high energy trauma
3. causes compression of arteries and nerves

Question 2

how does compartment syndrome present?

Answer 2

1. severe pain dispropo to injury
2. parasthesia and signs of acute arterial insufficiency
3. affected compartment may feel tense compared to contralateral side

Question 3

Ix

Answer 3

1. clinical diagnosis
2. intracompartmental pressure monitor
3. creatinine kinase

Question 4

Mx

Answer 4

Immediate surgical tx with urgent fasciotomies