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Case Reports
. 2012 Dec 17:2012:bcr2012007710.
doi: 10.1136/bcr-2012-007710.

Acute gluteal compartment syndrome: superior gluteal artery rupture following a low energy injury

Aubrey Smith  1 , Vivek Chitre, Hersh Deo
Affiliations
Case Reports

Acute gluteal compartment syndrome: superior gluteal artery rupture following a low energy injury

Aubrey Smith et al. BMJ Case Rep. .

Abstract

Acute compartment syndrome affecting the gluteal region is rare when compared to the same condition in the forearm or calf. When it does occur, it is usually due to prolonged immobilisation in those with altered consciousness. Gluteal compartment syndrome resulting from injury to the superior gluteal artery is extremely rare and to our knowledge has been described only twice--both after high-energy road traffic accidents (RTA). Other cases have described profound hypotension with superior gluteal artery injury after an RTA and falling off a horse, without acute gluteal compartment syndrome. We present a case of gluteal compartment syndrome due to rupture of the superior gluteal artery following a relatively minor fall. The patient required an emergency fasciotomy, which was performed within 4 h of the injury. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of this rare condition.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
A 30 cm×20 cm right gluteal mass with no overlying skin compromise 1-h post injury. Arrow indicating mass protrusion.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Intraoperative picture depicting postcompartment release and debridement with arterial control.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Diagram to demonstrate the anatomy and relationship of the superior gluteal neurovascular complex in the gluteal region.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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