Pneumatic antishock garment-associated compartment syndrome in uninjured lower extremities

Abstract

Pneumatic antishock garment-associated compartment syndrome is a rare and yet underrecognized complication that when it occurs, frequently results in myonecrosis and loss of limb function, and occasionally loss of a limb or even death. We report a case of pneumatic antishock garment-associated compartment syndrome in a trauma patient without lower extremity injury and review similar published reports. It is only with a high index of suspicion, early recognition, and prompt treatment of this complication by fasciotomy and proper wound care that associated morbidity and potential mortality of this complication can be prevented or minimized.