Orthopedics
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We induced hemorrhagic shock in seven dogs and then resuscitated them with intravenous (IV) lactated ringers. We then monitored anterior leg compartment pressures via a slit catheter during both bleeding and reperfusion. These values were compared with controls that received IV fluids without being bled. ⋯ These values were statistically significant when compared to controls via the paired student t test (P < .01). This model demonstrates that sufficient swelling occurs to significantly elevate compartment pressures, even in the absence of local trauma. While this elevation may not be sufficient enough to cause a compartment syndrome, it reinforces the notion that extremities that have experienced ischemia and reperfusion are at an increased risk for developing compartment syndrome.