weefselcompartiment

A weefselcompartiment, or tissue compartment, refers to a distinct anatomical space within the body that is enclosed by a relatively inelastic membrane, such as fascia. This enclosure creates a confined environment where tissues, including muscles, nerves, and blood vessels, are situated. The pressure within a tissue compartment can rise due to various factors, such as bleeding, swelling, or external compression.

Because the surrounding fascia does not easily stretch, an increase in the volume of the contents within a compartment leads to a significant rise in internal pressure. This elevated pressure can impede blood flow to the tissues, leading to a lack of oxygen (ischemia). If the pressure remains high for an extended period, it can cause irreversible damage to the muscles and nerves within the compartment.

The most common and well-known example is the anterior compartment of the lower leg, but such compartments exist throughout the body, including in the forearm and thigh. A critical condition associated with weefselcompartimenten is compartment syndrome, which occurs when the pressure within a compartment becomes dangerously high. This condition requires prompt medical intervention to relieve the pressure and prevent permanent injury. Diagnosis often involves measuring the intracompartmental pressure. Treatment typically involves a surgical procedure called a fasciotomy, where the confining fascia is cut to release the pressure.