Acute compartment syndrome of the forearm secondary to infection within the space of Parona.

Abstract

The deep midpalmar space of the hand communicates with the space of Parona in the forearm. Infection of these deep spaces can be difficult to diagnose. This article presents the first reported case of acute compartment syndrome of the forearm secondary to infection within the space of Parona. This article discusses the anatomy of the space of Parona, highlighting its communicating spaces and the importance of recognizing a deep-space infection of the hand as a possible cause of compartment syndrome of the forearm. This article also suggests a method of clinical examination to aid in the diagnosis of infection within the space of Parona to allow more specific planning of surgical intervention through early decompressive surgery, with surgical exploration to exclude and drain infection when no other clear cause for the rise in pressure within the osteofascial compartment is apparent.