Page 144 - ATP-P 11th Ed

• Identify the anterior tibial crest and then identify the fibula. Make the
skin incision from the proximal third to the distal third of the foreleg.
SECTION 1
The incision is located approximately 2cm anterior to the fibula.

Figure 1. The incision is anterior to the fibula.
The lines on the foot are used ONLY for a foot compartment syndrome.

• Identify the intermuscular septum if possible. Make the anterior fascial
incision parallel to the tibial crest and about 1 inch lateral to the tibial
crest. The fascial incision should be the length of the skin incision. This
releases the anterior compartment. To release the lateral compartment,
identify the intermuscular septum approximately half way between the
fibula and the anterior tibial crest. Posterior to this septum, incise the
fascia from the proximal aspect to the distal third of the foreleg.
(b) Posterior Compartment:
• Make an incision at the posteromedial aspect of the calf from the
proximal muscle distally to the distal third of the foreleg. ID the fas-
cia and split the fascia of the superficial muscles. To release the deep
posterior compartment, develop the interval between posterior bor-
der of the tibia and the superficial posterior compartment. Proceed
deep along the posterior border of the tibia. Identify the deep posterior
compartment and release the fascia. Be careful of the deep neurovas-
cular structures.
(c) Foot
• Make longitudinal incisions between the metacarpals along the dorsal
aspect of the foot as shown in figure 1 and ID the underlying fascia and

134 SECTION 1 TACTICAL TRAUMA PROTOCOLS (TTPs) ATP-P Handbook 11th Edition 135