Compartment syndrome
Types of compartment syndrome
There are two main types of compartment syndrome: acute compartment syndrome and chronic (also called exertional) compartment syndrome. Acute compartment syndrome: happens suddenly, usually after a fracture or severe injury is a medical emergency and requires urgent treatment canlead topermanent muscle damage if not treated quickly Chronic compartmentsyndrome: happens gradually, usuallyduring andimmediatelyafter repetitive exercise (such as running or cycling) usually passeswithin minutes of stopping the activity is not a medical emergency and doesn't cause permanent damage
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Introduction
Find out what compartment syndrome is, what the different types and symptoms are, and how it's treated.
Types of compartment syndrome
There are two main types of compartment syndrome: acute compartment syndrome and chronic (also called exertional) compartment syndrome. Acute compartment syndrome: happens suddenly, usually after
Symptoms of compartment syndrome
Acute compartment syndrome Symptoms of acute compartment syndrome usuallydevelop after an injury and get quickly worse. Symptomscan include: intense pain, especially when the muscle is stretched,
When to get medical advice
It's important to get medical advice if you think you have compartment syndrome. If you think you have acute compartment syndrome go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department as s
Causes of compartment syndrome
Acute compartment syndrome Acute compartment syndrome can be caused by: abroken boneor a crush injury this is the most common cause a plaster cast or tight bandage being applied to a limbbefore it
Treatments for compartment syndrome
Acute compartment syndrome Acute compartment syndrome must be treated in hospital using asurgical procedure called an emergency fasciotomy. The doctor or surgeon makes an incision to cut open your s
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