Compartment syndrome is a surgical condition that must be assessed and treated in an urgent manner. Time is of the essence to ensure that ischemic damage is avoided or minimized. There are many reasons behind missed diagnosis, and obtunded or asensate patients are at increased risk. Delayed diagnosis and treatment of compartment syndrome results in poor outcomes that can include amputation or even death. There are few studies in the literature that offer solutions to this issue. In cases where there is significant muscle ischemia and necrosis, immediate fasciotomy and debridement are required that may even include amputation. In certain cases, monitoring the patient carefully without surgery may result in an improved outcome compared with debridement and inevitable amputation. Surgeons must be attentive to the patient’s metabolic condition to avoid injury from rhabdomyolysis including sepsis and death.
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