How To Diagnose And Treat Compartment Syndrome

Fasciotomy

A fasciotomy is a surgical procedure often used to treat individuals affected by compartment syndrome. A fasciotomy involves surgically opening the affected fascia to decrease pressure on the containing organs and tissues. This type of surgery is most often done in the leg, but it can also be used to treat compartment syndrome that occurs in the foot, hand, arm, or abdomen. For the treatment of compartments of the arm or leg, the surgeon makes one incision in the skin on top of the affected compartment. This incision usually spans the entire length from one joint to the next of the affected limb. The fascia is cut in a similar fashion with one incision that runs the same length as the first. Any tissue that has suffered necrosis or died is then extracted from the compartment. The fascia and skin are then sewed back together with very loose stitching, keeping the wound open. The area is then wrapped in a loose dressing and closely monitored so any more dead tissue can be removed, the wound can be cleaned, the stitches can be tightened, and a new dressing can be applied. This process of tightening the stitches and wound make take up to two weeks. If compartment syndrome has been caused by recent surgery, the existing wound is used if possible.

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