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Abstract
Four patients have presented secondarily to this unit in recent years with rhabdomyolysis
following prolonged compartment syndromes consequent upon drug overdoses or severe
injury. Multiple complications arose due to the severe nature of the compartment syndrome
itself and also its late and sometimes incomplete initial treatment. In two cases
out of four a secondary ampulation was required. Our experience with these case demonstrates
the importance of repeat examination under anaesthetic of the affected limbs following
fasciotomy, even if apparently healthy granulation tissue is forming, and the value
of persistent oedema and elevated creatine phosphokinase levels as markers of continued
pathology. Observation of these factors may enable amputations and prolonged nerve
palsies to be avoided in future pateints.
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
June 5,
1995
Identification
Copyright
© 1995 Published by Elsevier Inc.
