Necrosis of the flexor hallucis longus after atraumatic compartment syndrome

In addition to the “classic” post-traumatic compartment syndrome with its well-known semiology, it is important to be aware of the existence of subacute, atraumatic clinical entities, but involving the same mechanism. Therefore, it is essential to remain vigilant for the occurrence of unusual symptoms that may indicate frustrated compartment syndrome after prolonged surgery in a fixed position. What is already known about the topic? Most compartment syndromes occur in the setting of trauma. The term “well-leg compartment syndrome” is used to describe compartment syndromes that occur in the extremities in the absence of any trauma. What does this article bring up for us? This article highlights a common misconception: the occurrence of symptoms after surgery that are illogical in relation to the procedure performed should prompt the medical team to consider the possibility of unusual compartment syndrome. Keywords Well-leg compartment syndrome, compartment syndrome, postoperative complication, supine, FHL, necrosis, contracture