Journal of pediatric orthopedics. Part B
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Pediatric acute compartment syndrome (ACS) is an orthopedic emergency which requires timely recognition and management. There are unique considerations in children, as they may present with a wide array of symptoms and capacities to communicate. We sought to investigate the presentations, treatments and outcomes of pediatric ACS, hypothesizing that decompressive fasciotomy results in good outcomes, even with delayed treatment (>24 h). ⋯ Overall, patients had good outcomes, achieving full functional recovery with return to preinjury activity level. Pediatric ACS should be approached as a distinct clinical entity from adult ACS, where risks of infection and wound complications from delayed fasciotomy generally outweigh the benefits. We recommend considering decompressive fasciotomy for all cases of pediatric ACS, including those with prolonged time from injury to diagnosis.