Fasciotomy Wound Management

Abstract

Problem Background • Surgical fasciotomy is the only effective treatment, offering an immediate decrease in the compartment pressure and an increase in the volume of the affected muscle compartment through the release of the skin and muscle fascia. • Complications of fasciotomy include long hospital stay, wound infection and osteomyelitis, need for further surgery for delayed wound closure or skin grafting , scarring, delayed bone healing, pain and nerve injury, permanent muscle weakness, chronic venous insufficiency, cosmetic problems, and an overall increased cost of care. • However, closure of fasciotomy wounds is challenging, and a plethora of techniques have been proposed. • With no consensus existing in the literature regarding the best method for closure of fasciotomy wounds, the technique applied each time is based mostly on sur-geon's preference and other variables, such as the condition of the tissues surrounding the wound, availability of materials and devices, patients' environment and preference, and institutional financial resources.