These tend to take up more room than is available in the compartment, potentially compressing nerves and blood vessels to the point that they’re unable to perfuse the tissues effectively. As compartment syndrome can result in insufficient oxygen reaching the tissues and hence tissue death, it is imperative that it is diagnosed and managed promptly and effectively.Īcute compartment syndrome typically occurs following trauma or injury that results in bleeding and/or swelling within one of the compartments. There are two primary types of compartment syndrome: acute and chronic exertional compartment syndrome, which are categorised by the cause of the increase in pressure. This impairs circulation and nerve and muscle function, and can cause a large amount of pain for those affected. As the compartments are not designed to expand, the muscles, blood vessels and nerves within the compartment and compressed. In compartment syndrome, the pressure within a muscle compartment exceeds what is deemed normal. If we look at the lower leg, it is separated into four compartments: The muscles in each compartment have similar functions and typically work together to produce movement. Alongside muscles, these compartments also contain nerves, blood vessels and connective tissues. This membrane allows very little stretch or expansion as it functions to keep the muscles together and hence functioning efficiently. It is important to understand that the muscles of the legs are separated into compartments that are enclosed by a connective tissue membrane (called a fascia ). While it most commonly affects the lower leg, it can also affect the arms, thighs, foot, buttocks and the abdomen. Compartment syndrome describes the development of high pressure within a muscle compartment.
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