Akgun et al reported factors associated with surgical site infections in patients undergoing fasciotomy for acute compartment syndrome. The presence of these factors can identify a patient who may benefit from more aggressive management. The authors are from Ankara Etlik City Hospital in Turkey.
Patient selection: status post fasciotomy for acute compartment syndrome
Risk factors for a surgical site infection:
(1) serum CK concentration > 17,839 IU/L
(2) use of vacuum-assisted closure
(3) use of primary closure with shoelace method
(4) development of renal failure
(5) fasciotomy performed within an earthquake zone
where:
• An acute compartment syndrome after an earthquake is probably the result of blunt or crush injury.
• Surgery performed during a natural disaster is often done under suboptimal conditions.
• A high serum CK indicates rhabdomyolysis, and rhabdomyolysis may be a cause of renal failure.
