Compartment syndrome is a pathologic condition in which a closed anatomical compartment's pressure, most often in the arms and legs, increases to such an extent that the microcirculation of the tissues in that compartment is diminished either acutely or subacutely over time. Such vascular compromise, if untreated, may result in tissue necrosis and muscle and nerve damage. If limb tissue damage is severe enough, amputation of the involved extremity may be necessary. Symptoms of compartment syndrome may include severe pain, diminished or non-palpable pulses, paralysis of the involved extremity, and dermatologic sequela. There are two types of compartment syndrome: acute and chronic. The former is considered a surgical emergency in most cases requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment in order to release intracompartmental pressure thus decreasing the chance of significant tissue damage. In this article, the author presents a novel case in which acute compartment syndrome sequela of the lower leg was successfully treated with surgery, negative pressure wound therapy with instillation and dwell utilizing a novel dressing and serial automated suction blister epidermal harvesting and grafting. The outcome was favorable, resulting in complete limb preservation and return to normal function.
Keywords: cellutome; cleanse choice™ dressing; compartment syndrome; emergency medicine; general surgery; negative pressure wound therapy; negative pressure wound therapy with instillation and dwell; orthopedic trauma; skin grafting; wound care.