What Are The Symptoms And Complications Of Compartment Syndrome?

Permanent Nerve Damage And Loss Of Function

Permanent nerve damage and loss of function is a serious and sometimes permanent complication that occurs in individuals affected by compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome is the result of an excessive amount of pressure buildup inside of one the body's fascia membranes. The pressure causes the organs, bones, muscles, and any other tissue inside of the fascia to compress against each other and the fascia walls. Therefore, the blood vessels and the nerves that run throughout all of these tissues become squeezed or compressed. Nerves that are compressed for an extended period will experience disintegration of their blood-nerve barrier. This barrier functions to protect and keep the interior of the nerve isolated from anything on its exterior. The breakdown of this barrier allows fluid to accumulate in the interior of the nerve cell, which results in increased pressure and swelling. The nerve eventually becomes inflamed from the swelling and incurs damage. If the compression continues, the nerve loses its supply of oxygen and can die. This process is what causes a compartment syndrome patient to experience permanent nerve damage that results in the loss of tissue function.

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