OBJECTIVETo investigate the effects of decompresion through double-incision of foot dorsum on the treatment of osteofascial compartment syndrome of the foot under the monitoring of saturation of blood oxygen.

METHODSFrom January 2000 to June 2007, 26 cases of osteofascial compartment syndrome of the foot were decompressed through double-incision of foot dorsum under the monitoring of saturation of blood oxygen, and relaxation suture or skin grafting were operated within 3 to 10 days after decompressing. Among them, 22 patients were males and 4 were females, with an average age of 36.3 years old ranging from 22 to 68 years. According to AOFAS system, the pain, function, autonomic activities and support were evaluated.

RESULTSAll patients were followed-up for from 6 to 43 months with the average of 19 months. All patients were healed. According to AOFAS system, the total scores increased from preoperative (30.4 +/- 8.02) to postoperative (92.5 +/- 5.0) (t = 3.13, P < 0.01); the results were excellent in 21 cases, good in 4 and poor in 1.

CONCLUSIONThe patients of fracture-dislocated, swelling and injured in the soft tissue because of severe violence should observed closely on osteofascial compartment syndrome of the foot early. Feet are operated and thoroughly decompressed as soon as it is diagnosed as the compartment syndrome. Osteofascial compartment syndrome of the foot decompressed by foot dorsum double-incision is convenient and satisfied, and the operation is performed by internal fixation if it is displacedly fractured at the same time.