Compartment syndrome is a condition that occurs when the pressure within the muscles builds up to dangerous levels leading to decreased blood flow. This stops the nutrition and oxygen from reaching the nerve and muscle cells of the body. The condition can be acute or chronic. In its acute state, the condition can lead to permanent muscle damage, whereas the chronic state usually occurs due to athletic exertion. Fasciotomy is the surgery required for treating compartment syndrome. Like any surgery, compartment syndrome surgery has its own complications.
Skin Sloughing
MD Guidelines states that skin sloughing is a possible complication of compartment syndrome surgery. Skin sloughing, also known as skin necrosis, is a condition in which the skin cells die due to infection or injury.
Recurrence of Compartment Syndrome
Compartment syndrome may recur in around three to 20 percent cases that have undergone fasciotomy, as listed by MD Guidelines. It goes on to say that this recurrence of the syndrome can be caused due to the excessive formation of scar tissue. It can also recur if the fascia is not released properly during the initial surgery.
Infections
According to the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, infections can occur as a complication of compartment syndrome surgery. The infections may occur in the soft tissue and bone, and the incidence of infections depends on the timing of the fasciotomy. Infections are more likely to occur in late fasciotomies than in early surgeries. Infections in late fasciotomies may also worsen and lead to amputation of the limb.
Complications Related to Skin Grafting
In some cases of compartment syndrome surgery, skin grafting may be required, according to M.D. Guidelines. This could cause infection, scarring and contracture at the site from where the skin has been taken.
