On Behalf of Simon & Gilman, LLP | Feb 7, 2023 | Motor Vehicle Accidents |
During a car accident, it is not uncommon to endure a crush injury. Unfortunately, one of the most severe crush injuries is compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome occurs when increased pressure builds up within a muscle compartment. The pressure can cause nerve damage along with blood flow issues.
Unfortunately, it can be challenging to detect compartment syndrome right away.
What causes compartment syndrome?
Compartment syndrome occurs due to blunt trauma. There are thick layers of tissue that separate groups of muscles. Each of the layers, or fascia, has a confined space or compartment. The compartment includes blood vessels, nerves and muscle tissue. Unfortunately, fascia cannot expand. If you have swelling in a compartment, the pressure presses against the nerves, muscles and blood vessels. When pressure lasts for too long, your muscles can die.
Compartment syndrome can occur after an accident, due to a broken bone or because of blood loss during surgery.
What are the symptoms of compartment syndrome?
Many symptoms of compartment syndrome do not appear right away. Some of your symptoms may include a higher level of pain than normally associated with that type of injury. Generally, the pain will not fade when you take medication or if you raise the area. Your skin may begin to look pale and you may lose feeling in the area. In acute injuries, your symptoms may increase rapidly within a few hours.
To treat compartment syndrome, physicians aim to prevent permanent damage. Most of the time, surgery is the only option to relieve the pressure.
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