Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
compartment syndrome
Acute condition where increased pressure within muscle compartments compromises circulation and tissue function.
Full Definition
Compartment syndrome occurs when swelling or bleeding increases pressure within a tight fascial space, compressing blood vessels and nerves. This creates a surgical emergency requiring immediate fasciotomy to prevent permanent tissue damage, muscle death, and functional loss. Common in trauma patients and post-surgical cases with significant swelling.
Usage
Usage note: Distinct from abdominal compartment syndrome; refers specifically to extremity compartments.
In Context
- "The patient developed compartment syndrome in the forearm following reperfusion injury." — operative report
- "Clinical signs of compartment syndrome include severe pain out of proportion to examination findings." — clinical documentation
Also known as
acute compartment syndrome
Don't confuse with
abdominal compartment syndrome