compartment syndrome

Compartment syndrome

Compartment syndrome is a condition in which a muscle swells but is constricted by the connective tissue around it, which cuts off blood supply to the muscle.

Mentioned in: Fractures

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compartment syndrome

Etymology: L, com + partiri, to share

a pathologic condition caused by elevation of tissue pressure within a closed compartment, resulting in the progressive development of compression and consequent reduction of blood supply. The compression may result from swelling within an overly restrictive dressing or cast or from nonexpansive muscle fascia. Clinical manifestations include swelling, restriction of movement, brown urine, myoglobinuria, vascular compromise, and severe pain or lack of sensation. The pain may appear out of proportion to the injury. It can result in a permanent contracture deformity of the hand or foot, with or without a fracture. In severe cases, it can lead to necrosis and necessitate the amputation of an extremity. Treatment includes elevation, removal of restrictive dressings or casts, and potentially a surgical decompression or fasciotomy. See also Volkmann's contracture.

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compartment

a part of the body as a whole and divided from the rest by a physical partition.

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fluid compartment

that liquid part of the body excluded by cell membranes. Includes intravascular and intercellular compartments.

compartment syndrome

muscles which are contained in an aponeurotic sheath may be subjected to serious ischemia as a result of increase in the size of the muscle as a result of vigorous muscular activity.

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compartment syndrome

Compressive syndrome Orthopedics A symptom complex caused by ischemia, trauma–fractures, inflammation or infection of a closed anatomic space, resulting in compression of nerves, blood vessels, or tendons that traverse the space Clinical Numbness, paresthesias, pain or loss of movement of an extremity Management Early therapy–fasciotomy is crucial as end-stage disease requires major reconstructive surgery to salvage function. See Carpal tunnel syndrome, Tarsal tunnel syndrome.