Neonatal Compartment Syndrome and Compound Presentation at Birth

Neonatal Compartment Syndrome Secondary to a Failed Peripheral Inserted Central Catheter Insertion: A Case Report

Introduction

Neonatal compartment syndrome is a rare phenomenon with a limited number of cases reported in the literature with varying etiologies. Current literature categorizes etiologies as either intrinsic or extrinsic. To the best of our knowledge, difficult delivery and delivery through vacuum are the only two iatrogenic etiologies that have been reported in the literature. Thus, this may be the first reported case of neonatal compartment syndrome secondary to a failed peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) insertion.

Case Report

We present a case of a pre-mature neonate with diffuse discoloration, paralysis, and loss of palpable pulses of the right upper extremity after a failed PICC insertion. The clinical features led to a diagnosis of compartment syndrome. Interventions were not carried out due to the pre-maturity and instability of the patient. The patient passed away at 38 days of age due to refractory hypotension and patent ductus arteriosus.

Conclusion

We present a case of neonatal compartment syndrome caused by a previously unreported etiology, highlighting the current dearth of knowledge. Clinicians should be aware of the unique clinical presentation of neonatal compartment syndrome and maintain high suspicion even without an obvious etiology.

Delayed onset of neonatal compartment syndrome associated with compound fetal presentation

Neonatal compartment syndrome, although rare, has a classic presentation with sentinel skin findings and development of swelling, erythema, and tenderness of the affected extremity. Neonatal compartment syndrome requires prompt surgical intervention to preserve the affected limb and ensure its normal growth and development. Our patient was born at term via vaginal delivery complicated by a compound presentation involving the left upper extremity. No physical exam abnormalities were noted at birth, but she developed signs of neonatal compartment syndrome by 15 h of life. She was surgically treated at 22 h of life and recovered well. At one year of age, she has normal growth and function of the affected extremity. Our case adds to the growing literature associating neonatal compartment syndrome with a compound fetal presentation.