Traumatic compartment syndrome of unspecified upper extremity Save

Traumatic compartment syndrome of unspecified upper extremity: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Traumatic compartment syndrome of the upper extremity is a medical condition that occurs when the pressure in the muscles, nerves, and blood vessels increases beyond normal limits. This condition can lead to severe damage and even loss of function in the affected limb if not treated promptly. Here's what you need to know about this condition:

Causes

Traumatic compartment syndrome typically occurs after an injury to the upper extremity, such as a fracture, crush injury, or severe contusion. The increased pressure in the affected compartment can also be caused by bleeding or inflammation, which further compresses the nerves and blood vessels.

Symptoms

The symptoms of traumatic compartment syndrome of the upper extremity include severe pain that worsens with movement, swelling, numbness or tingling sensation in the affected limb, weakness, and difficulty moving the limb. In severe cases, the skin may also appear pale or blue, and there may be a loss of sensation or pulse in the affected limb.

Treatment

Traumatic compartment syndrome of the upper extremity is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. The first step is to relieve the pressure in the affected compartment, which may involve a surgical procedure called fasciotomy. This procedure involves making small incisions in the affected compartment to release the pressure and allow the blood to flow freely.

After the surgery, the patient may need to stay in the hospital for a few days to monitor their condition and receive pain medication and antibiotics. Physical therapy may also be necessary to help the patient regain strength and mobility in the affected limb.

Conclusion

Traumatic compartment syndrome of the upper extremity is a serious medical condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent permanent damage to the affected limb. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above after an injury to your upper extremity, seek medical attention immediately.

1. References:
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3312645/
3. https://www.healthline.com/health/compartment-syndrome#treatment