Fasciotomy for chronic compartment syndrome in the lower limb.
BACKGROUND
The aim of this study was to determine the success of fasciotomy of lower limb compartments with elevated intra-compartment pressure.


METHODS
The present report is a retrospective cohort study at No. 3 Combat Support Hospital involving a survey and case note review of patients who had undergone fasciotomy for compartment syndrome at least 6 months earlier (December 1997-December 2000).


RESULTS
Fourteen patients met the inclusion criteria. Eleven reported success with complete resolution of symptoms and return to military fitness levels. Two reported no change and significant residual symptoms. One reported worse symptoms and one required re-operation with a successful result.


CONCLUSIONS
Surgical decompression is the accepted treatment of compartment syndrome as proven by pressure manometry, after failure of conservative treatment.
Cook
Steven
S
No. 3 Combat Support Hospital, Royal Australian Air Force Base Richmond, Richmond, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. drscook@hotmail.com
Bruce
Greg
G
D000328:Adult; D001315:Australia; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003161:Compartment Syndromes / Q000534:rehabilitation / Q000601:surgery*; D019299:Decompression, Surgical / Q000379:methods*; D015444:Exercise; D000071938:Fasciotomy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg; D008297:Male; D008889:Military Personnel; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000534:rehabilitation / Q000601:surgery; D012189:Retrospective Studies