Intraoperative hyperthermia related to acute compartment syndrome under general anesthesia：a case report

Abstract

Background: Intraoperative hyperthermia is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt recognition and management. In this article, we will present a case of intraoperative hyperthermia resulting from acute compartment syndrome. Case presentation: A young patient developed hyperthermia during general anesthesia. He also showed hemodynamic fluctuations, metabolic acidosis. Physical examination revealed absent pulsation in the left dorsal artery and tensely swollen, cyanotic skin on the lower leg. The patient received immediate swelling relief and cooling measresures which resulted in a gradual reduction of his body temperature, improvement in metabolic acidosis and hemodynamic stability. After the surgical procedure, the patient was transferred to the intensive care unit for further monitoring and extubation was performed the next day. Conclusions: Anesthesiologists should be aware of the possibility of acute compartment syndrome in patients with unexplained temperature rise after the exclusion of other causes.