Neonatal Forearm Compartment Syndrome Secondary to Intrauterine Brachiocephalic Arterial Thrombosis: A Case Report

JBJS Case Connect. 2021 Mar 5;11(1). doi: 10.2106/JBJS.CC.20.00207.

Abstract

Case: A newborn presented with necrotic skin lesions and contractures of the right upper extremity. Ultrasonography indicated the presence of a brachiocephalic artery thrombosis, and clinical examination demonstrated a neonatal forearm compartment syndrome. Surgical treatment included decompressive fasciotomy of the right forearm. The right-sided brachiocephalic thrombosis resulted in left hemiplegic cerebral palsy. At the 3-year follow-up, the patient had near-normal function of the right upper extremity. This case has detailed preoperative video and follow-up to illustrate this rare but modifiable condition.

Conclusion: This case demonstrates a unique cause of neonatal forearm compartment syndrome (brachiocephalic arterial thrombosis) and the results of prompt surgical treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Compartment Syndromes* / diagnosis
  • Compartment Syndromes* / etiology
  • Compartment Syndromes* / surgery
  • Fasciotomy / methods
  • Forearm / surgery
  • Forearm Injuries*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Thrombosis* / complications
  • Thrombosis* / diagnostic imaging