Compartment syndrome – a complex and insidious medical problem

Abstract

Introduction and Objective. Compartment syndrome (CS) is a severe and rapidly progressing condition associated with muscle compartments restricted by fascia. It most commonly affects the lower extremities and develops as a result of bone fractures or soft tissue injuries. The essence is an increased pressure within the compartments which have limited ability to compensate their volumes. The aim of this review paper is to present the complexity of the problem, its pathophysiology and current methods of diagnosis and treatment. Review Methods. Printed literature,PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched using key words related to compartment syndrome, fasciotomy, fracture and trauma. Articles and book sections in English were searched and two positions from printed literature in Polish were used. Articles were selected after analyzing abstracts, and those which were incomplete or outdated were excluded. The types of articles included prospective studies, retrospective studies and reviews. The summary was supported by case studies to add imaging and clinical value to the study. Brief description of the state of knowledge. From the initial search, 40 articles were retrieved for final analysis. The available data provide the latest information specifically on the diagnosis of compartment syndrome. Intra-compartmental pressure measuring devices currently in use were utilised. Treatment is based on surgical decompression called fasciotomy. The list of symptoms is intended to increase the consciousness in proceeding with this condition. New non-invasive diagnostic and treatment options are currently used in clinical research and provide a hopeful future in the described disease. Summary. Compartment syndrome is a relatively uncommon trauma-related condition, and if untreated can lead to severe complications or even limb amputation. Management is urgent and strictly surgical.