What is Compartment Syndrome?

Compartment syndrome happens when excessive pressure builds up inside the body’s enclosed muscle space. Compartment syndrome is usually the result of bleeding or swelling following an injury.

The hazardously high compartment syndrome pressure impedes blood flow to and from the tissues affected. It can be an emergency that requires surgery to avoid permanent injury.

Behind the Muscle in Compartment Syndrome?

Organ or muscle groups are organized into areas which are called compartments. The walls of these compartments are formed by strong connective tissue webs, called fascia. Blood or edema (fluid resulting from inflammation or injury) may build up in the compartment following an injury.

Fascia’s tough walls can’t easily expand, and compartment pressure increases, preventing adequate blood flow to tissue inside the compartment. Severe damage to tissue may result, in loss of body function or even death. The legs, arms, and abdomen are more likely to develop syndrome with the compartment.

Causes of Compartmental Syndrome

The most common type of syndrome in the compartment is acute compartment syndrome. Acute compartment syndrome is caused around three-quarters of the time by a broken leg or arm. In the course of hours or days, acute compartment syndrome develops fast.

Compartment syndrome, due to pressure from bleeding and edema, can develop from the fracture…