Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) is an orthopedic emergency that can have irreparable sequela if not diagnosed and treated promptly. There are, however, numerous challenges to making a timely diagnosis in children. Not only is ACS uncommon in children, but clinical presentations are often atypical, and accurate assessments can be challenging in young patients with developing motor skills and limited language abilities. Practitioners should be alert to the possibility of ACS in any situation that results in musculoskeletal trauma because the syndrome results from increased pressure within an enclosed fascial space. Making a timely and accurate diagnosis is essential to good outcomes.
