Acute compartment syndrome of the foot

Abstract

Acute and post-traumatic compartment syndrome of the foot is typically associated with mechanisms of high-energy, multiple foot fractures, particularly those caused by crushing or trapping. Early diagnosis and treatment in view of the suspicion of an acute compartment syndrome in a traumatic foot will help prevent the effects of myoneural necrosis. Even though there are various methods of compartment pressure monitoring, the diagnosis is mainly clinical. Prophylaxis is essential and the best treatment is to prevent the development of this syndrome. To achieve this a correct clinical history and initial examination is needed, with special care in the nerve, vascular and muscle evaluation. Surgical decompression using fasciotomy must be urgent and will be mandatory to prevent the severe sequelae. Delayed treatment can have disastrous consequences, such as contracture and paralysis, infection, and sometimes amputation.