Compartment Syndrome-Compartment Syndrome of the Forearm

Compartment Syndrome of the Forearm

Pdf Summary

Compartment syndrome of the forearm is a condition in which increased pressure in the muscles of the forearm causes damage to the nerves and blood vessels. This systematic review analyzed 12 retrospective studies to examine causes, diagnosis, treatment, and complications of the condition. The most common cause of compartment syndrome in children was a supracondylar fracture, while in adults the most common cause was a fracture of the distal radius. Diagnosis was typically based on clinical assessment, with measurement of intracompartmental pressure used in some cases. Fasciotomy, a surgical procedure to relieve pressure, was the preferred method of treatment. Post-fasciotomy, skin grafting was needed in 61% of cases, whereas secondary closure was performed in 39%. Neurological deficit was the most common complication, occurring in 21% of cases. The study concluded that early diagnosis and treatment are necessary to prevent complications and that further research is needed to improve understanding of the condition.

Keywords

compartment syndrome

forearm

increased pressure

muscles

nerves

blood vessels

causes

diagnosis

treatment

complications