Compartment Syndrome After Elective Revascularization for Chronic Ischemia: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Compartment syndrome is a rare but serious complication of vascular reconstruction. It most commonly occurs following revascularization of an acutely ischemic extremity. This case of compartmental syndrome following bypass surgery for chronic arterial insufficiency is therefore exceedingly unusual. A review of the literature reveals only a few cases with similar presentation. The diagnosis can usually be made on the basis of clinical manifestations combined with compartmental pressure measurement. A timely, four-compartment fasciotomy can avert serious complications with minimal morbidity. Late recognition and treatment of this complication, as well as inadequate decompression, can lead to loss of limb.