Current Perspectives on Acute Upper Extremity Compartment Syndrome: Literature Review and Surgical Management

Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) of the upper extremity is a surgical emergency defined by the rise of interstitial pressure within a closed osteofascial space. This elevation compromises microcirculation, inducing tissue ischemia and, potentially, irreversible necrosis of nerves and muscles. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, although intracompartmental pressure monitoring serves as a valuable adjunct in patients with altered sensorium. The definitive treatment is immediate decompressive fasciotomy. This review synthesizes current anatomy, pathophysiology, and treatment algorithms to optimize functional outcomes and minimize chronic sequelae such as Volkmann's ischemic contracture.