ACS

Q: Extremity with acute compartment syndrome (ACS) should be? (select one)

A) Elevated to relieve pressure
B) Put in a dependent position
C) None of the above
D) Any of the above


Answer: C

Limb with ACS should not either be elevated or put in a dependent position. Elevating the extremity compromised the arterial inflow resulting in tissue hypoxia, and putting it in a dependent position exacerbates the compartment pressure.

#vascular
#surgical-critical-care


Reference:

Styf J, Wiger P. Abnormally increased intramuscular pressure in human legs: comparison of two experimental models. J Trauma 1998; 45:133.