Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
fasciotomy
Pronunciation: fash-ee-OT-oh-mee
Emergency surgical procedure to relieve pressure within muscle compartments by incising the fascia.
Full Definition
Fasciotomy is an urgent surgical intervention performed to treat compartment syndrome by surgically opening the fascial compartments to relieve pressure. The procedure involves making incisions through the skin and fascia to decompress the affected compartments, restoring blood flow and preventing tissue death. It is commonly performed in emergency settings for trauma patients, burn victims, or those with acute compartment syndrome.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from fasciectomy (removal of fascia).
In Context
- "Emergency fasciotomy was performed to treat acute compartment syndrome." — Surgical procedure note
- "The patient required bilateral lower extremity fasciotomy following the crush injury." — Trauma surgery report
Also known as
compartment release
Don't confuse with
fasciotomy vs fasciectomy