Compartment Syndrome: Important Information for Every Boca Raton Car Accident Victim

Compartment syndrome is a serious complication often seen in Florida accident victims who have sustained a broken bone, muscle bruising, or a crush injury during a motorcycle or car accident. If compartment syndrome is not treated in time, the damage may be irreparable and amputation may be necessary. For this reason, it is important that anyone who has suffered a crush injury in a Boca Raton car accident know the warning signs of compartment syndrome.

What is compartment syndrome?

The arms and legs are separated into groups or compartments of muscles, nerves and blood vessels by thick layers of tissue called fasciae. Fasciae are responsible for holding muscles in place, so they are tough and not very flexible. The inflexible nature of fasciae is a good thing under most conditions, but when there is an injury to an arm, leg, hand or foot, the tissue within the compartment may swell. The fasciae cannot expand to accommodate the swelling. This puts pressure on the muscles, nerves, and blood vessels and can lead to permanent cell damage.

What are the symptoms of compartment syndrome?

The primary symptom of compartment syndrome is persistent pain that does not go away, even with medication. The pain may be excruciating.

Other symptoms include:

• Increased pain with movement
• Burning sensation
• A feeling of muscle “fullness”
• Swollen, shiny skin
• Pale skin
• Decreased sensation
• Weakness
• Numbness
• Paralysis

How is compartment syndrome diagnosed?

If you suspect compartment syndrome after a Boca Raton car crash, see a doctor immediately. The doctor will conduct a physical exam. To confirm the diagnosis, he may measure the pressure in the compartment with a pressure meter. The pressure meter is attached to a needle that is inserted into the muscle. The reading will confirm a compartment syndrome diagnosis.

How is compartment syndrome treated?

In order to avoid serious complications, it is important that the pressure within the compartment be released through surgery. The surgeon will make several long cuts through the fascia to relieve the pressure. The cuts are left open for 48 to 72 hours. Once the pressure is released and the swelling has gone down, the fascia is repaired.

What are potential complications of compartment syndrome?

The swelling of the muscle can cause permanent nerve and muscle damage. In some cases, there is enough damage that amputation is necessary.

If you have been injured in a Florida car accident you need answers to your questions. Get the facts in The Florida Accident Workbook: Tools, Tips & Tactics to Resolve Your Injury Claim. To schedule a free consultation with Boca Raton injury lawyer David Glatthorn, contact David at 866-413-5525.