Compartment syndromes in neurology

Compartment syndromes are mostly caused by traumatic lesions. In the extremities muscles are limited by fascias in certain compartments. Due to an increased pressure within this compartment the muscles become necrotic and the nerves situated within the fascias are damaged. Signs and symptoms are pain, local swelling and sensory deficits in distal areas innervated by the nerves compressed within the compartment. Diagnosis is based on the measurement of subfascial pressure. Sometimes imaging procedures may be helpful. The silent EMG is only rarely used for diagnosis. To prevent contractures and muscle weakness a timely fasciotomy is necessary. The article gives an overview about various common comportment syndromes as well as their sequels.