Spontaneous bilateral compartment syndrome of the legs: A case report and review of the literature

INTRODUCTIONBilateral acute compartment syndrome of the legs is a rare presentation requiring emergent surgical intervention.PRESENTATION OF CASEWe report the case of 41-year-old woman who presented with acute bilateral compartment syndrome of the legs, complicated by rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure.DISCUSSIONThere are very few previously reported cases of bilateral compartment syndrome of the legs. In the present case, despite any clear causative factor, we suggest that the aetiology is related to inadvertent posture during sleep.CONCLUSIONThe diagnosis of acute bilateral compartment syndrome of the legs requires a high index of suspicion, particularly in the absence of obvious aetiology. A successful outcome can be achieved with early diagnosis, prompt surgical intervention and a multidisciplinary approach.