Compartment syndrome is a serious complication that can occur after a child suffers a forearm fracture, any other long bone fracture, or crushing injury to a limb. Any of these injuries may cause internal bleeding and or swelling inside the limb. Pressure builds up inside and causes injury to muscles, blood vessels and nerves in the affected limb. The loss of a limb, caused by compartment syndrome, can be a devastating and life changing event for a child. Being able to recognize the symptoms early may make the difference in a child's life, and decrease feelings of guilt for the parent or caretaker.
Symptoms in Children
The symptoms of compartment syndrome you must watch for in a child, are different due to the age and overall size of a child. In a child, the numbness, paralysis, pallor and absence of pulse to the limb -- symptoms in adults -- may not show up for several hours, and by then it may be too late to reverse the damage.
Increasing Anxiety
Watch the child for symptoms of increasing anxiety, such as grimacing, restlessness and crying. Anxiety in children may also cause the child to be quiet or withdrawn. She may act out or have unusual temper tantrums. The child may simply be more difficult to comfort or have trouble falling asleep.
Agitation
With agitation, the child may appear to be hyperactive, cry more than usual, and may seem to be confused or hostile at times. Children become more disobedient or out of character when agitated. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and poor appetite may also indicate anxiety in a child.
Pain Medications Don't Work
Ineffectiveness of pain medication is another symptom of compartment syndrome you should look out for. Severe pain, such as occurs with compartment syndrome, is difficult to relieve. If pain medication is not working, this is another indication that something is wrong.
Treatment for Compartment Syndrome
Compartment syndrome in anyone, especially children, is considered a surgical emergency and intervention must be taken immediately. The surgical procedure consists of making a long incision to cut open the thick protective tissue in the front and back of the enclosure, opening up the compressed compartment. This allows blood to flow and relieves pressure on muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. The incisions usually will heal in four to six weeks if no complications occur.
