CASE REPORT Spontaneous Forearm Compartment Syndrome in a Boy With Hemophilia A: A Therapeutic Dilemma

Eplasty. 2013:13:e16. Epub 2013 Mar 16.

Abstract

Objective: We present the case of a 14-year-old Factor VIII-deficient patient with no history of trauma, who developed acute spontaneous compartment syndrome of the volar forearm. We also suggest a treatment strategy.

Methods: Fasciotomy with hematoma evacuation and ipsilateral carpal tunnel release was performed, and the wound was closed with vascular loops in "Jacob's ladder" fashion. Factor infusions were continued overnight.

Results: The volar forearm compartment was successfully decompressed, and the patient's coagulopathy was managed with appropriate clotting factors.

Conclusions: Hemophilic patients warrant special consideration and multispecialty care; with replenished coagulation factors and timely surgical decompression, they can expect satisfactory recovery of muscular and neurological function.