Compartment syndrome of the non-injured limb

BMJ Case Rep. 2020 Apr 9;13(4):e231657. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2019-231657.

Abstract

Compartment syndrome is a common limb-threatening entity in trauma. However, the occurrence of the same in the non-injured limb is rare. It seems to be multifactorial in origin, with abnormal positioning being the most common cause. We present such a case of well-leg compartment syndrome which was treated by an urgent fasciotomy. We emphasise on the fact that the diagnosis of compartment syndrome is clinical and the management remains the same irrespective of whether the limb has sustained an injury or not.

Keywords: general surgery; orthopaedic and trauma surgery; surgery; vascular surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Compartment Syndromes / diagnosis*
  • Compartment Syndromes / therapy
  • Fasciotomy / methods
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Thigh / physiopathology*
  • Wounds and Injuries