Author
Dr. Michael S Shuler, et al.
Journal
Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, Volume 7
Summary
This study measured the thickness of subcutaneous tissue over the posterior leg muscles in patients with tibia fractures to assess whether swelling or obesity might affect near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) readings. Researchers found that tissue depth rarely exceeded 2 cm and was not significantly affected by injury or body mass index. These findings support the reliability of NIRS for continuous monitoring of acute compartment syndrome in traumatically injured legs.