What is decompression fasciotomy?

Compartment decompression, also called ‘decompressive fasciotomy’, is a surgical procedure to treat a painful knee condition known as “compartment syndrome”.

What should I do after fasciotomy?

1. Avoid friction over scar tissue.
2. Avoid post-activity swelling.
3. No strenuous activity until wound is fully healed.
4. No running until 8 weeks postop. Patient must receive clearance from Dr. Forsythe to progress with jogging prior to PT initiating.
5. Avoid pain with any exertional activity.

Should you elevate a limb with compartment syndrome?

If a developing compartment syndrome is suspected, place the affected limb or limbs at the level of the heart. Elevation is contraindicated because it decreases arterial flow and narrows the arterial-venous pressure gradient.

How long does it take to recover from fasciotomy?

Complete closure may take up to 2 weeks. A skin graft may be needed if the area cannot be completely closed.

What is the difference between fasciotomy and fasciectomy?

Fasciotomy or fasciectomy is a surgical procedure where the fascia is cut to relieve tension or pressure in order to treat the resulting loss of circulation to an area of tissue or muscle. Fasciotomy is a limb-saving procedure when used to treat acute compartment syndrome.

When is an extremity fasciotomy indicated?

The pressure point at which fasciotomy should be considered is not a specific value, although a compartment pressure of 30 mm Hg is a commonly cited value. Masquelet notes that whenever diastolic pressure minus tissue pressure (Δ p) is less than 30 mm Hg, fasciotomy is indicated.

Is fasciotomy painful?

You will experience pain, swelling and reduced mobility in your lower leg after compartment syndrome surgery. You will have a large wound in the area of the fasciotomy which may be covered with light dressing. It is not advised to cast, splint or compress the affected limb after the surgery.

How long after a fasciotomy Can you walk?

No attempt at running, or “walking for exercise”, should be made before review by your surgeon, but is usually gradually introduced 3-4 weeks following surgery. Foot and ankle movements Start by performing simple ankle and foot up and down movements with the heel against a wall as shown below.

Can you have a pulse with compartment syndrome?

Beware that the presence or absence of a palpable arterial pulse may not accurately indicate relative tissue pressure or predict the risk for compartment syndrome. In some patients, a pulse is still present, even in a severely compromised extremity.

How fast can compartment syndrome develop?

Acute compartment syndrome is the most common type of compartment syndrome. About three-quarters of the time, acute compartment syndrome is caused by a broken leg or arm. Acute compartment syndrome develops rapidly over hours or days.

What type of surgeon performs fasciotomy?

Fasciotomy in the limbs is usually performed by a surgeon under general or regional anesthesia. An incision is made in the skin, and a small area of fascia is removed where it will best relieve pressure.

What is Dupuytren’s Fasciectomy?

A fasciectomy (fash-ee-EK-tuh-mee) is a surgical procedure to remove fascia (a fibrous layer of tissue) in your hand that tightens from Dupuytren’s disease. This condition causes one or more of your fingers to involuntarily curl toward your palm. In severe cases, you can’t straighten your fingers.

What are the postoperative instructions for a fasciotomy for chronic compartment syndrome?

Post-Operative Instructions Fasciotomy for Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome Day of surgery A.Diet as tolerated B.Icing is important for the first 5-7 days post-op. While the post-op dressing is in place, icing should be done continuously.

How do you recover from a fasciotomy?

Self-care: Rest as needed. Rest can help you heal and prevent you from causing more damage to the surgery area. Elevate the area, if possible. If you had a fasciotomy in an arm or leg, raise the area above the level of your heart as often as possible. Apply ice to the area as directed.

What are the side effects of a fasciotomy?

You have bleeding from the surgery area that does not stop after 10 minutes of firm pressure. You cannot move the arm or leg that had the fasciotomy. You have signs of infection in the surgery area, such as red streaks, pus, or a foul odor.

What are the different types of surgical decompression?

Specifics of surgical decompression vary, but many include: open fasciotomies or fasciotomies with partial fasciectomies.9 An open fasciotomy typically involves 1-2 large incisions where connective/fascial tissue is cut. A partial fasciectomy describes a procedure in which a portion of the connective tissue/ fascia is removed.