Crush Syndrome: Traumatic Rhabdomyolysis, Reperfusion Injury

ABSTRACT

A crush injury causes damage to bones, muscles, blood vessels, nerves, and other tissues caused due to pressure. Crush syndrome is a reperfusion injury that occurs throughout the body after a crush injury and leads to traumatic rhabdomyolysis, in which muscle fibers are broken down. Owing to the decreased blood supply, inflammation, and changes in metabolic activity, fluids and electrolytes in the blood can move into tissues, causing hypovolemic shock. In addition, toxic substances resulting from cell destruction can circulate through the bloodstream, causing electrolyte imbalances, renal failure, arrhythmias, and cardiac arrest, with approximately 15% of patients with acute renal failure dying. The treatment for crush syndrome involves aggressive fluid therapy and correction of the electrolyte imbalances, while patients with acute renal failure may require dialysis. Surgical treatment may include debridement and irrigation of necrotic tissue, and fasciotomy is necessary to address compartment syndrome, a complication that may arise.