Compartment syndrome

Compartment syndrome is dangerous pressure buildup within a closed muscle compartment that compromises circulation and tissue function. Acute cases can cause irreversible muscle and nerve damage unless pressure is relieved promptly.

Acute compartment syndrome: A rapidly developing rise in pressure within a muscle compartment that threatens tissue viability. This time-critical form can follow injury and requires urgent pressure relief.
Pain out of proportion: Pain markedly greater than expected from an injury, often a warning sign of serious underlying damage. Disproportionate pain, especially with passive muscle stretch, can signal an acute compartment emergency.
Chronic exertional compartment syndrome: Recurrent exercise-related pressure and pain in a muscle compartment that usually improve with rest. Unlike acute compartment syndrome, this exertional form typically develops predictably and is not an immediate surgical emergency.
Deep vein thrombosis: A blood clot in a deep vein, most often in the leg. It can cause limb pain and swelling, but results from venous clotting rather than pressure within a muscle compartment.
Intracompartmental pressure: The pressure within a closed anatomical compartment, measurable with a pressure-monitoring device. Elevated pressure helps establish whether circulation within a compartment is threatened.
Passive stretch test: A clinical maneuver that stretches muscles to assess pain or restricted movement. Stretching muscles within the affected compartment can intensify pain in acute cases.
Crush syndrome: A systemic illness caused by extensive muscle injury and the release of cellular contents after compression. Prolonged compression can cause both compartment syndrome and body-wide complications from muscle breakdown.
Acute limb ischemia: A sudden reduction in blood flow to an arm or leg, usually from arterial blockage. Both conditions threaten limb tissue, but acute limb ischemia begins with impaired arterial supply.
Tissue perfusion: The delivery of blood through tissue capillaries to supply oxygen and nutrients. Rising compartment pressure impairs perfusion and deprives muscle and nerves of oxygen.
Compartment pressure measurement: A procedure that estimates pressure inside a muscle compartment using a needle or catheter-based device. Measurement supports diagnosis when examination findings are uncertain or unreliable.

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