Journal of pediatric orthopedics. Part B
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Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) is an emergency with potentially devastating consequences. Delayed recognition may be especially concerning for the pediatric population, as children present with a wide variety of etiologies, symptoms, and levels of communication. We sought to determine the average time from injury to diagnosis, most common presentations, the degree to which providers obtained pressure measurements, and outcomes of ACS in the pediatric population. ⋯ Pediatric ACS differs from adult ACS, as pediatric patients generally achieve good outcomes even when presenting in delayed fashion and undergoing fasciotomies for at least 24 h. We recommend considering decompressive fasciotomy in children even if there is prolonged time from injury to diagnosis. Level of evidence: IV.