title: Minimally invasive subcutaneous fasciotomy for chronic exertional compartment syndrome of the lower extremity.
abstract: Chronic exertional compartment syndrome of the lower extremity can be debilitating in the active population. Open fasciotomy typically provides a cure or significant improvement in up to 90% of patients, provided that the compartments are adequately released. Cosmetic deformity from the surgery may be a major concern, especially in the young female athlete. A technique for minimally invasive subcutaneous fasciotomy is described that allows adequate compartment release and a favorable cosmetic result.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.
authors.forename: Mark L
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Wood
authors.forename: Louis C
authors.initials: LC
authors.lastname: Almekinders
mesh_terms: D002908:Chronic Disease; D003161:Compartment Syndromes / Q000601:surgery*; D000071938:Fasciotomy; D006801:Humans; D035002:Lower Extremity / Q000601:surgery*; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D005082:Physical Exertion; D013177:Sports