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Case Reports
. 2014 Nov;4(2):e77-80.
doi: 10.1055/s-0034-1382257. Epub 2014 Jun 24.

Neonatal volkmann ischemic contracture: case report and review of literature

Hitesh Agrawal  1 , Gunjan Dokania  1 , Shou-Yien Wu  2
Affiliations
Case Reports

Neonatal volkmann ischemic contracture: case report and review of literature

Hitesh Agrawal et al. AJP Rep. 2014 Nov.

Abstract

Background Neonatal Volkmann ischemic contracture in newborns is a devastating condition with lifelong consequences. Case Report We report a neonate born with necrotic skin lesions and bullae on right dorsal thenar aspect of hand, who subsequently developed compartment syndrome requiring fasciotomy. Review and Conclusion Necrotic skin lesions with/without swelling, bullae are invariably present at birth in these patients and should be recognized as a sentinel finding of underlying tissue ischemia/compartment syndrome. Early recognition and prompt surgical intervention can be limb saving. A range of radiologic abnormalities and contractures were noted in upto 84% of such patients followed long term. Hence, we recommend close follow-up until occurrence of epiphyseal fusion in these patients.

Keywords: contracture; neonatal Volkmann ischemic contracture; neonatal extremity gangrene; skin necrosis.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Necrotic plaque on the right dorsal thenar hand with upper extremity swelling and induration at 1 day of life.
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
(A) Right upper extremity radiograph at 10 hours of age showing normal radius and ulna with soft tissue swelling around the elbow; (B) Radiograph at 3 weeks of age demonstrating subtle lucency and irregularity along the distal metaphyses of radius and ulna.
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Healthy appearance of right upper extremity at 3 months of life.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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