Compartment Syndrome: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

Home Compartment Syndrome: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

Compartment Syndrome: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

A 25-year-old man presents with severe pain in his left lower leg after a skiing accident. He reports the pain worsens with stretching and is disproportionate to the injury. His leg is swollen and tense. Pulses are intact. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

A. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
B. Tibial fracture
C. Acute compartment syndrome
D. Cellulitis
E. Achilles tendon rupture

Answer and topic summary

The answer is C. Acute compartment syndrome

Acute compartment syndrome occurs when increased pressure within a closed muscle compartment compromises circulation and function of the tissues within that space. This patient’s symptoms of severe pain, pain with stretching (pain on passive stretch of the muscles within the compartment), and a swollen, tense leg are classic for compartment syndrome. Immediate fasciotomy is often required to prevent permanent damage.

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Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint Musculoskeletal  ⇒ Compartment Syndrome