Acute compartment syndrome in pediatric patients with peripheral nerve blocks

Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) develops when elevated pressure within a muscle compartment restricts blood flow, causing tissue ischemia and potential irreversible damage if not promptly diagnosed. 1 Peripheral nerve blocks (PNBs) are commonly used in pediatric orthopedic surgeries for postoperative pain management. However, PNB use in patients at risk for ACS is controversial, proposing concerns that PNBs mask pain associated with ACS, potentially delaying diagnosis.2 3 Few large studies have explored the impact of PNBs on ACS diagnosis and treatment in pediatric patients.