Compartment syndrome in burn patients. A report of five cases.

Compartment syndrome has been observed in five burn patients. In all five patients the diagnosis was delayed and muscle necrosis occurred. Three limbs in two patients required amputation because of complete muscle necrosis, and the function of limbs in the three other patients was affected to different degrees. It is suggested that early limb escharotomies or fasciotomies in patients with full-thickness burns is necessary. Dressing should not be very tightly wound in limbs that have been grafted and the sensory and motor function of fingers or toes must be monitored carefully as well as distal circulation in limbs after operation.