Compartment syndrome is a painful and dangerous condition occurring when pressure within muscles builds to dangerous levels. Typically, it arises from trauma, such as a fracture or severe bruise, leading to swelling within a confined muscle compartment. This increased pressure restricts blood flow, potentially causing nerve and muscle damage if not promptly treated.
In musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound, features such as increased muscle size, decreased arterial flow, and tissue edema can suggest compartment syndrome, aiding early diagnosis. Ultrasound offers a non-invasive tool to assess muscle and fascial integrity, providing valuable insights for medical professionals in managing this time-sensitive condition.