Acute Exertional Bilateral Thigh Compartment Syndrome in a Patient with Rhabdomyolysis After Spin Class: A Case Report

JBJS Case Connect. 2023 Jun 15;13(2). doi: 10.2106/JBJS.CC.23.00030. eCollection 2023 Apr 1.

Abstract

Case: A healthy 24-year-old woman developed rhabdomyolysis and acute bilateral thigh compartment syndrome after 10 minutes of spin class. She was successfully managed with early recognition, aggressive fluid resuscitation, and prompt bilateral surgical decompressive fasciotomy.

Conclusion: Rhabdomyolysis with acute compartment syndrome is a rare but devastating combination of conditions. A high suspicion for rhabdomyolysis and progression to acute compartment syndrome is warranted for any patient presenting with increasing pain even with a limited history of trauma or exertion. Early recognition and medical and surgical treatment are paramount to preventing permanent damage.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Compartment Syndromes* / etiology
  • Compartment Syndromes* / surgery
  • Fasciotomy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pain
  • Rhabdomyolysis* / complications
  • Rhabdomyolysis* / therapy
  • Thigh
  • Young Adult