Upper Extremity Escharotomy and Fasciotomy

Abstract

This chapter describes the surgical procedure for upper extremity escharotomy and fasciotomy. The text includes an introduction that outlines the indications, risks, alternatives, essential steps, needed equipment, and variations in technique for the procedure in question. This is followed by a template operative dictation, which provides the reader with an operative report, such as that found in a patient chart or electronic medical record. A description is provided of the following critical concepts for this procedure: for escharotomy, incisions extend completely through the eschar to the level of subcutaneous fat for adequate release and ensuring complete release of constricting muscle fascia for fasciotomies.