Limb Compartment Syndrome

Limb Compartment Syndrome is a serious condition that affects the muscles and nerves in an arm or leg. It happens when pressure builds up inside a closed space called a compartment, which contains muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. This increased pressure can reduce blood flow, leading to damage of the tissues. The main body system involved is the musculoskeletal system, specifically the muscles and nerves. Symptoms often include severe pain, swelling, and numbness in the affected limb. If not treated quickly, it can cause permanent muscle damage or loss of limb function. Early recognition of severe pain and swelling is critical.

Limb Compartment Syndrome is defined as increased pressure within a closed osteofascial compartment that compromises the circulation and function of the tissues within that space. It most commonly results from trauma such as fractures, crush injuries, or tight casts that cause increased intracompartmental pressure. The pathophysiology involves impaired venous outflow leading to increased interstitial pressure, which reduces arterial inflow and causes ischemia. This ischemia leads to muscle and nerve necrosis if not promptly relieved. Clinically, it presents with the classic signs of pain out of proportion, pain on passive stretch, paresthesia, and eventually pallor and paralysis. It is a surgical emergency due to the risk of permanent disability or limb loss.