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Acute compartment syndrome — MCCQE Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateFractures/TraumaAcute compartment syndromeMCCQE Part 1

A 35-year-old man with a tibial shaft fracture develops increasing anterior compartment pain disproportionate to injury. Passive toe extension causes severe pain. Compartment tense. Pulses present. Most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: A — Emergent fasciotomy

Acute compartment syndrome: surgical emergency. Presence of pulses does NOT rule it out. When clinical diagnosis clear, do not delay for pressures. Delay risks Volkmann's contracture and limb loss.

Reference: Canadian Orthopaedic Trauma Association