injuries and poisoning
Compartment Syndrome
Treatment of Compartment Syndrome
Removal of anything confining the limb If needed, surgery to open the compartment If tissues in the limb have died, possibly amputation Treatment must be begun before the limb becomes pale and before the pulse stops. If there is no pulse, tissues in the limb may be dead. When doctors suspect this syndrome, they immediately remove anything that is confining the limb, such as a splint or a cast. Doctors monitor blood potassium levels and treat Hyperkalemia (High Level of Potassium in the Blood) (potassium level too high) and If tissues in the limb have died because their blood supply was cut off, the limb may have to be amputated. Without treatment, compartment syndrome can cause infections that can be fatal. 