Name of the Procedure:

Fasciotomy, Hip or Thigh
Common Name: Fasciotomy
Technical Terms: Fasciotomy of the Hip, Fasciotomy of the Thigh

Summary

A fasciotomy is a surgical procedure where the fascia (a layer of tissue) is cut to relieve tension or pressure in the hip or thigh. This is typically done to treat conditions where muscles swell and pressure builds up, compromising blood flow and nerve function.

Purpose

Medical Condition: Compartment syndrome, chronic exertional compartment syndrome, or acute trauma leading to increased compartmental pressure.
Goals: Relieve pressure, restore normal blood flow and nerve function, prevent permanent tissue damage.

Indications

Symptoms: Severe pain, swelling, numbness, or limited movement in the hip or thigh.
Conditions: Acute compartment syndrome due to trauma, surgery, or prolonged compression, and chronic exertional compartment syndrome.
Patient Criteria: Those showing rapid symptom onset post-injury or high-risk individuals (e.g., athletes).

Preparation

• Instructions: Fasting for at least 8 hours before the procedure.
• Medication Adjustments: Possible discontinuation of blood thinners or specific medications as advised by the healthcare provider.
• Diagnostic Tests: MRI, CT scan, or compartment pressure measurement to confirm diagnosis.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: General or regional anesthesia is administered.
2. Incision: A surgical incision is made over the hip or thigh area.
3. Fascia Cutting: The surgeon carefully cuts the fascia to relieve pressure.
4. Assessment: Evaluation of muscle, nerves, and blood vessels within the compartment.
5. Closure: The incision is either partially closed or covered with a sterile dressing. In some cases, a second procedure (delayed primary closure) may be needed to fully close the wound after swelling goes down.

Tools: Scalpel, retractors, surgical scissors, and hemostats.

Duration

Typically, the procedure lasts about 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital operating room.

Personnel

Healthcare Professionals:

• Surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses
• Operating room technicians

Risks and Complications

Common Risks: Infection, bleeding, and pain at the incision site. Rare Risks: Nerve damage, chronic pain, muscle weakness, and incomplete relief of symptoms. Management: Antibiotics for infections, pain management strategies, and physical therapy.

Benefits

Expected Benefits: Relief from severe pain and pressure, restored function, and prevention of permanent damage.
Realization Time: Benefits are often noticed soon after the procedure, though complete recovery may take weeks.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Keep the surgical site clean, follow wound care instructions, and attend follow-up appointments.
• Recovery Time: Initial recovery is about 1-2 weeks, with full recovery taking several months.
• Restrictions: Limited activity, avoiding weight-bearing on the affected limb, and physical therapy.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options: Non-surgical options include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy.
Pros and Cons: Non-surgical methods may offer temporary relief but do not address increased pressure effectively. Surgery is more definitive for severe cases but carries more risks.

Patient Experience

During Procedure: Patients will be under anesthesia and should not feel pain. After Procedure: Expect some pain and swelling, managed with pain relief medications. Gradual return to normal activities under medical guidance.