Fasciotomy
Fasciotomy is the surgical procedure performed to alleviate the pressure or swelling found in a body’s compartment, usually by cutting the surrounding tissues of the affected area. Compartments are the nerves, blood vessels, and muscles separated into different regions. And the compartments are covered in strong sheets of tissue of fascia. When fluid build-up or swelling occurs, it can elevate the pressure in these compartments, obstructing or slowing down blood flow and damaging nerves.
The procedure mainly treats compartment syndrome that may result from medical conditions like rhabdomyolysis. By releasing the pressure, blood flow will improve. Moreover, local tissue damage can be prevented or minimized. While issues are rare, every procedure comes with its fair share of risks, and fasciotomy is no exception. Some possible complications from the operation are excessive bleeding, infection, muscle tissue breakdown, scarring, chronic pain, and tissue damage.
After the procedure, you may be required to be admitted to the hospital to monitor breathing, pulse, and blood pressure. Post-operative recovery may include pain medications, hydration via IV, and urine tests. You should call your doctor immediately if any complications arise during the recovery process, such as fevers, increasing pain, and numbness.
