Todd R Yip1, Bart M Demaerschalk. 1. Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Minor and major bleeding complications have occurred following thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke. However, compartment syndrome has not been reported among these incidences. METHODS AND RESULTS: This article presents a case of a forearm compartment syndrome in a patient with stroke who had fallen at the time of the infarction and was treated with tissue plasminogen activator. We wish to forewarn clinicians who may encounter similar cases. CONCLUSION: Patients suffering from stroke who fall are at risk of developing a compartment syndrome; the early diagnosis is often difficult, the sequelae can be devastating, and wrestling with the benefits and risks of reversing the coagulopathy in the acute phase of a cerebral infarction is a challenge.
INTRODUCTION: Minor and major bleeding complications have occurred following thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke. However, compartment syndrome has not been reported among these incidences. METHODS AND RESULTS: This article presents a case of a forearm compartment syndrome in a patient with stroke who had fallen at the time of the infarction and was treated with tissue plasminogen activator. We wish to forewarn clinicians who may encounter similar cases. CONCLUSION:Patients suffering from stroke who fall are at risk of developing a compartment syndrome; the early diagnosis is often difficult, the sequelae can be devastating, and wrestling with the benefits and risks of reversing the coagulopathy in the acute phase of a cerebral infarction is a challenge.
Authors: R M Califf; E J Topol; B S George; J M Boswick; C Abbottsmith; K N Sigmon; R Candela; R Masek; D Kereiakes; W W O'Neill Journal: Am J Med Date: 1988-09 Impact factor: 4.965