Acute compartment syndrome of the foot after an ankle sprain: a case report

Abstract

Objective: To present the diagnostic and clinical features including management of acute compartment syndrome of the foot and to create a sense of emergency amongst orthopaedic surgeons of this rare and dangerous condition. Clinical features: A 19-year old young man presented at the emergency department referring a twisting injury of his left ankle presented with swelling and pain after an acute second-degree lateral ankle sprain. The patient was treated with the RICE protocol (rest, ice, compress and elevate). Two days later, the patient returned at the emergency department, late at night with severe swelling, paresthesia, reffering an excruciating pain at his left foot and inability to walk. A diagnosis of foot compartment syndrome was made. Intervention and outcome: An emergency fasciotomy of the lateral and medial compartment (dual dorsal incision) of the foot was performed and necrotic muscle parts were removed. Summary: Foot compartment syndrome is a rare but existent complication of ankle injuries. Every patient with ankle sprain should be informed about potential complications and advised to be immediately examined in case of suspicious symptoms. This article discusses the key components of presentation, diagnosis, and management of foot compartment syndrome.