This narrative review by Frink et al. synthesizes the anatomy, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and surgical management of acute compartment syndrome of the lower leg and foot — covering both the well-established lower leg entity and the historically underrecognized foot counterpart first formally described by Myerson in 1988.
When you see a crushed or high-energy foot injury — especially Lisfranc or Chopart patterns — check compartment pressures in all nine compartments and don't forget the calcaneal compartment, which requires a separate medial plantar incision; a normal dorsal fasciotomy leaves it untouched.
Measure the delta pressure (diastolic BP minus compartment pressure), not just the absolute number, and document every serial exam meticulously.
This narrative review by Frink et al. synthesizes the anatomy, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and surgical management of acute compartment syndrome of the lower leg and foot — covering both the well-established lower leg entity and the historically underrecognized foot counterpart first formally described by Myerson in 1988.
When you see a crushed or high-energy foot injury — especially Lisfranc or Chopart patterns — check compartment pressures in all nine compartments and don't forget the calcaneal compartment, which requires a separate medial plantar incision; a normal dorsal fasciotomy leaves it untouched.
Measure the delta pressure (diastolic BP minus compartment pressure), not just the absolute number, and document every serial exam meticulously.