What is the definition of compartment syndrome?

Compartment syndrome is defined as a serious condition involving increased pressure within a muscle compartment. This increase in pressure can lead to reduced blood flow, which results in the deprivation of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and nerves within that compartment. The condition often arises from trauma, prolonged pressure, or swelling, and it requires prompt recognition and intervention to prevent irreversible damage to the affected tissues.

In its early stages, compartment syndrome may present with pain, particularly with passive stretching of the muscles in the compartment, and can progress to more severe symptoms such as weakness, numbness, and a sensation of tightness. Without timely treatment, which may involve surgical intervention to alleviate the pressure (often through fasciotomy), the affected muscles and nerves can sustain permanent damage.

This clear definition distinguishes compartment syndrome from other conditions such as muscle atrophy or inflammatory responses, which do not involve increased compartment pressure as their primary pathological feature.