Double jeopardy: two episodes of forearm compartment syndrome in the same patient. (5th January 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Seth, Rohit; Vijayan, Roshan; Khandwala, Asit
• Is Part Of: BMJ case reports. Volume 2015
• Publication Date: 2015-01-05
• Subjects: Medicine -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2014-208079
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-790X

Abstract

Abstract : A 55-year-old woman taking warfarin for previous deep venous thrombosis (DVT), presented with an acutely swollen and painful forearm after forcefully contracting her forearm flexor compartment while using a car hand brake and later, an axe. Compartment syndrome was diagnosed and emergency fasciotomy performed, with a haematoma discovered between the flexor compartments of flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) and flexor digitorum profundus (FDP). After evacuation and resolution of symptoms, the wounds were closed 4 days later. Following discharge on the fifth day, symptoms recurred without warning, prompting re-exploration and discovery of further haematoma. Symptoms again resolved and in due course a skin graft was applied to close the wound without tension.