WOUND CLOSURE BY DERMATOTRACTION AFTER FASCIOTOMY FOR ACUTE COMPARTMENT SYNDROME

Abstract

Intramuscular pressure (IMP) was measured in 16 patients during secondary wound closure by dermatotraction with external tissue extension (ETE®). Secondary wound closure was done 4-16 days after fasciotomy for acute compartment syndrome. The traction between wound edges was 2.5 N in the first six patients and 3.5 N in the following 10 patients. Mean (SD) IMP was 6.9 (3.5) mmHg before wound closure. It increased to 12.3 (1.4) mmHg in the 2.5 N group and to 24.7 (7.0) mmHg in the 3.5 N group when dermatotraction was applied. Mean (SD) leg perfusion pressure in the 2.5 N group decreased by 7% to 69.3 (10.9) mmHg and in the 3.5 N group by 23% to 62.2 (7.4) mmHg. None of the patients needed a skin graft. We conclude that dermatotraction by ETE® raises IMP intraoperatively sufficiently to preserve adequate limb perfusion pressures.

• Intramuscular Pressure Fasciotomy Secondary Wound Closure Ete