Treatment of bilateral Posterior Tibial Compartment Syndrome using a Novel Surgical Approach: A Case Report of the Posterior Approach

Orthop Rev (Pavia). 2024 Apr 23:16:116374. doi: 10.52965/001c.116374. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

Osteofascial compartment syndrome is a serious surgical emergency that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. It presents a challenge for surgeons due to its high disability rate and difficult management. Early fasciotomy decompression is crucial in preventing severe complications. Classic fasciotomy approaches for tibial osteofascial compartment syndrome include double-incision and single-incision techniques.This paper presents a case of a 24-year-old female with bilateral tibial posterior compartment syndrome resulting from prolonged squatting after alcohol intoxication, which is a relatively rare mechanism. We employed an innovative posterior approach to manage the patient with tibial posterior compartment syndrome. Ultimately, we successfully preserved the patient's legs and achieved a good functional recovery.The paper reported a rare case with bilateral posterior tibial compartment syndrome resulting from squatting for 10 hours after alcohol intoxication. The patient achieved favorable outcomes in lower limb function following treatment with a new fasciotomy approach, the posterior approach.The new approach for treating posterior tibial compartment syndrome can serve as a valuable reference for surgeons.

Keywords: Osteofascial compartment syndrome; alcohol intoxication; emergency medicine; posterior approach; squatting.

Grants and funding

This work was supported by program funded Fuyang Municipal Health Commission of China (No. FY2019-064 and No.FY2021-051).