NEONATAL COMPARTMENT SYNDROME: EVALUATION AND LONG-TERM RESULTS OF SIX PATIENTS

Objective: This retrospective case series study aimed to report the long-term results of six patients treated with the diagnosis of neonatal compartment syndrome (NCS). Although NCS is very rare, it is a clinical entity with high morbidity, which may result in limb loss with delay in diagnosis and treatment. There may be many “etiological factors” however, it may also occur due to idiopathic causes.Material and Methods: We evaluated the possible risk factors, treatment approaches, and long-term outcomes of six patients diagnosed with neonatal compartment syndrome and were referred to our clinic by the neonatal service between 2006 and 2018.Results: The average follow-up period for patients was 47.6 months (37-62 months). Necrotic changes in the volar muscles were observed especially in patients diagnosed late (after day 7), and additional surgeries were required. Complete recovery was observed in one patient who was diagnosed and treated surgically on the first postnatal day, but residual ischaemic contractures remained in the others, and reconstructive procedures were required. These patients underwent prolonged hand physiotherapy, and partial improvement in hand function was observed.Conclusions: Although NCS is a rare condition, it is a disorder that leads to poor prognosis and permanent disability in the absence of immediate diagnosis and urgent surgical treatment. Since there is no definitive test to reveal compartment syndrome and diagnosis is made by clinical observation, timing of treatment is of great importance to prevent complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for favourable outcomes.