Late surgical decompression for compartment syndrome of the forearm.
Two cases are reported of the late diagnosis of compartment syndrome secondary to alcohol and drug overdose. Surgical decompression at two and a half days and at six days, respectively, produced worthwhile recovery. Other reports are reviewed and a case is made for the value of decompression even when performed late, and for delayed and minimal excision of apparently necrotic muscle.
D000328:Adult; D003161:Compartment Syndromes / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D000071938:Fasciotomy; D005260:Female; D005542:Forearm / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009068:Movement; D009132:Muscles / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D009336:Necrosis; D012086:Reoperation; D012677:Sensation; D013997:Time Factors