Volkmann described complications following therapy of a limb injury.
Features of Volkmann's contracture:
(1) limb paralysis
(2) limb contracture
(3) scarring
Mechanism: ischemia affecting muscles and nerves due to compartment syndrome or arterial occlusion
Risk factors:
(1) limb fracture or surgery
(2) hemorrhage and/or edema into a limb
(3) arterial occlusion of a major artery in the limb
(4) overly tight bandages or cast
(5) orthopedic frame with limb elevation (including the 90/90 spica cast)
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Specialty: Surgery, orthopedic
