Recurrent Lower-Extremity Compartment Syndrome after Four-Compartment Fasciotomy Secondary to Acute Limb Ischemia

Ann Vasc Surg. 2016 Jan:30:306.e5-7. doi: 10.1016/j.avsg.2015.06.092. Epub 2015 Sep 9.

Abstract

Lower-extremity compartment syndrome is a limb-threatening event necessitating emergent treatment using fasciotomy. Recurrent compartment syndrome is rare and has only been reported after trauma and in conjunction with underlying connective tissue disorders. In this report, we present a case of recurrent lower-extremity compartment syndrome caused by ischemia-reperfusion injury, in a patient previously treated with adequate 4-compartment fasciotomies. As such, this is the first reported case of recurrent compartment syndrome in the setting of ischemia-reperfusion injury that required treatment with 4-compartment fasciotomies on both occasions. This case demonstrates that fasciotomy is not protective against the development of recurrent compartment syndrome due to ischemia-reperfusion injury and that patients at high risk require monitoring.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Compartment Syndromes / diagnosis
  • Compartment Syndromes / etiology*
  • Compartment Syndromes / surgery*
  • Fasciotomy*
  • Humans
  • Lower Extremity / blood supply
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Recurrence
  • Reperfusion Injury / complications*
  • Reperfusion Injury / diagnosis
  • Reperfusion Injury / therapy