Compartment syndrome is a limb threatening and life threatening condition, defined as the compression of nerves, blood vessels, and muscle inside a closed space (compartment) within the body. This leads to tissue death from lack of oxygenation due to the blood vessels being compressed by the raised pressure within the compartment. Compartment syndrome most often involves the forearm and lower leg, and can be divided into acute, subacute, and chronic compartment syndrome. An alternative definition of compartment syndrome, according to Rankin, is characterized by pressure within a closed space thus compromising the circulation and function of tissues in that space (Rankin, 1981).
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Famous quotes containing the word syndrome:
“[T]he syndrome known as life is too diffuse to admit of palliation. For every symptom that is eased, another is made worse. The horse leech’s daughter is a closed system. Her quantum of wantum cannot vary.”
—Samuel Beckett (1906–1989)