For a patient whose leg is trapped for an extended period, what intervention is most likely to improve limb salvage?

In the context of a patient whose leg is trapped for an extended period, performing lower extremity fasciotomies is crucial for improving limb salvage. When a limb is entrapped, the prolonged pressure can lead to a condition known as compartment syndrome, where increased pressure within the muscle compartments deprives the tissues of blood flow, leading to ischemia and potential necrosis.

Fasciotomy involves making incisions in the fascia surrounding the muscles to relieve this pressure and restore adequate blood flow. By addressing the compartment syndrome promptly through fasciotomy, it significantly increases the chances of salvaging the limb by preventing irreversible damage. The timing of this intervention is critical, as delays in relieving the pressure can lead to muscle necrosis and loss of limb function.

Other interventions such as applying skeletal traction or administering anticoagulant drugs may not effectively address the underlying issue of compartment syndrome resulting from prolonged entrapment. Transferring the patient to trauma care, while essential for overall management and further treatment, does not provide the immediate relief needed within the limb itself to prevent tissue damage. Thus, fasciotomy stands out as the most direct and effective means to improve the outcome in such scenarios.