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In the absence of obvious trauma, diagnosis of acute compartment syndrome (ACS) of the thigh can easily be delayed, as disproportional pain is not always present. We present a case of ACS of the anterior right thigh compartment in a healthy, semiprofessional rugby player with normal coagulation, who sustained a seemingly innocuous blow during a rugby match. Following early surgical fasciotomy, he returned to his preinjury playing standards within 12 months. Our literature review suggests that high muscle mass, young, athletic males participating in a contact sport are mostly at risk of developing ACS of the thigh.

Original publication

DOI

10.1136/bcr-2015-210856

Type

Journal article

Journal

BMJ Case Rep

Publication Date

06/08/2015

Volume

2015

Keywords

Adult, Athletic Injuries, Compartment Syndromes, Fascia, Fasciotomy, Football, Humans, Male, Muscles, Risk Factors, Thigh