After news that Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn could have lost her leg after her horrific crash, some may be wondering what is the condition which could have necessitated the amputation of her leg — compartment syndrome.
What is compartment syndrome?
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, compartment syndrome is a “painful condition that occurs when pressure within the muscles builds to dangerous levels.”
It can decrease blood flow, preventing nourishment and oxygen from reaching the nerves and muscles.
Types of compartment syndrome
There are two variations of compartment syndrome: acute and chronic.
Acute compartment syndrome typically happens when there is a severe injury. It is painful. The condition can lead to permanent muscle damage if not treated, the AAOS said. Acute compartment syndrome is a medical emergency.
Acute compartment syndrome happens in fewer than 10 in every 100,000 people in the U.S., but it is more common in people with some types of bone fractures. About 10% of people with tibia fractures will develop it, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Chronic compartment syndrome, also known as exertional compartment syndrome, is typically caused by athletic exertion and can be controlled by rest. It is not usually a medical emergency.
The AAOS said compartments are groupings of nerves, muscles and blood vessels in the legs and arms. They are covered by the fascia, a tough membrane that keeps everything in place.
Compartment syndrome happens when there is swelling or bleeding in the compartment and since the fascia does not stretch, the pressure builds and can disrupt blood flow, potentially damaging the muscle and nerve cells.
In acute compartment syndrome, if the pressure is not released, permanent damage, even tissue death, may occur.
Causes of compartment syndrome
Injuries that can lead to acute compartment syndrome include:
- Fractures
- Badly bruised muscles
- Reestablished blood flow after a blockage
- Crush injures
- Anabolic steroid use
- Constricting bandages, casts
Where can compartment syndrome happen?
The Cleveland Clinic said it can happen in any muscle group, but is most common in the:
- Legs, especially lower legs
- Arms
- Hands/wrists
- Feet
- Abdomen
- Buttocks
Symptoms of compartment syndrome
There are several symptoms, including:
- Intense pain, more than what is expected with the initial injury
- Tingling or burning in the skin
- Muscle may feel tight, full
- Numbness in the late stages
- Paralysis in the late stages
For chronic compartment syndrome, there is usually numbness, difficulty moving and visible muscle bulging.
Treatment of compartment syndrome
Acute compartment syndrome requires surgery for treatment, during which the doctor will cut open the skin and fascia to relieve the pressure. Once the pressure decreases, the surgeon will then repair the incision. Sometimes a skin graft is needed.
For the chronic type, there are nonsurgical options, including avoiding the activity that causes the pain, cross-training, switching surfaces, or modifying techniques. If surgery is needed, then those procedures are similar to those of acute compartment syndrome, the AAOS said.
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