Module 7 - Hand Injuries

Compartment Syndrome

Compartment syndrome is due to an increase in the pressure within a compartment restricting venous outflow and eventually impairing arterial inflow to the tissue. If unrelieved, ischemic necrosis of the muscles within the compartment will occur resulting in long-term contractures. The etiology may include crush injuries, burns (particularly electrical burns), high pressure injection injuries, and fractures. The forearm is the site more commonly injured but compartment syndrome of the hand has also been noted especially with crush injuries. The diagnosis is made when there is bulging of the compartment, severe pain, dysfunction, swelling, and an increase in the compartment pressure measurement. This is a medical emergency requiring urgent release of the compartment by way of fasciotomies or escharotomies.

Author: Dr. SF Morris