Compartment Syndrome of the Forearm

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Definition/Description[edit | edit source]

Compartment Syndrome of the forearm is a condition in which pressure inside the closed osseofascial compartment increases to such an extent that there is a compromise of microcirculation, leading to tissue damage[1]. It may or may not be preceded by fracture or traumatic injury. Although uncommon, compartment syndrome of the forearm is a well recognized diagnosis that can lead to significant morbidity and mortality if not diagnosed and treated early in the clinical course[2].

Etiology[edit | edit source]

Relevant Anatomy[edit | edit source]

Risk factors / comorbidities[edit | edit source]

Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]

typically presents with swelling of the forearm and patients complain of pain and difficulty with hand and wrist motion, particularly with passive motion. It may also be

accompanied with paresthesias of the hand depending on the clinical course. The compart- ment syndrome may or may not be preceded by fracture or traumatic injury.

Testing / Imagery (ie x-rays, ultrasound, nerve conduction tests)[edit | edit source]

Examination[edit | edit source]

Differential diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Rehabilitation approaches[edit | edit source]

Surgery[edit | edit source]

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

Helpful Resources[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. Raza H, Mahapatra A. Acute compartment syndrome in orthopedics: causes, diagnosis, and management. Advances in orthopedics. 2015;2015.
  2. Kistler, J.M., Ilyas, A.M. and Thoder, J.J., 2018. Forearm compartment syndrome: evaluation and management. Hand clinics34(1), pp.53-60.