Compartment Syndrome: Neuromuscular Complications and Electrodiagnosis.

Compartment syndrome is a treatable condition characterized by elevated intra-compartmental pressure and may be acute or chronic in nature. Sustained elevated compartment pressure can lead to ischemia and necrosis of muscle as well as injury to peripheral nerves, creating a deficit that may be neuropathic, myopathic, or mixed. While electrodiagnostic assessments are of limited utility in the diagnosis of acute/traumatic compartment syndrome, they can assist with prognosticating return of function post surgical fasciotomy, or in clarifying the injury pattern in cases where a traumatic injury results in subsequent neuromuscular deficits. They can also be used to rule out conditions that mimic chronic exertional compartment syndrome. During electrodiagnostic assessment, clinicians should be aware of patterns associated with muscle fibrosis versus denervation and utilize this information to assist with prognostication and appropriate counseling for patients regarding any interventional or adaptive treatments that may help restore function. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.