Management of Electrical Burn with Compromised Circulation

Diagnostic Considerations and Intervention

• Diminished pedal pulses indicate compromised circulation that requires immediate intervention, as suggested by the American Heart Association, with a high risk of permanent tissue damage within 4-6 hours if fasciotomy is delayed 1
• Femoral angiogram would delay definitive treatment while compartment pressures continue to rise, risking limb viability, and is not recommended by the American College of Cardiology for established compartment syndrome with diminished pulses 1
• Leg elevation and intravenous heparin are inadequate interventions for established compartment syndrome with diminished pulses, according to the American Heart Association, and may lead to further complications 1