A model compartmental syndrome in man with particular reference to the quantification of nerve function.

A human model system was used to investigate the effect of increased tissue pressure on different parameters of the function of the nerves and muscles in the anterior compartment of the leg. Abnormalities of sensation, strength, motor nerve-conduction velocity, and compound muscle-action-potential amplitude occurred in a parallel fashion when the intracompartmental pressure exceeded a threshold value. This threshold was significantly lowered by elevation of the extremity. Grossly abnormal functional parameters were consistently elicited when the peripheral pulse remained intact. The motor nerve-conduction velocity and compound muscle-action-potential amplitude appear to be reliable, non-invasive, and quantitative parameters of the physiological status of the neuromuscular tissue within the compartment.