What is the primary reason for performing a fasciotomy in a limb with signs of compartment syndrome?

The primary reason for performing a fasciotomy in a limb with signs of compartment syndrome is to relieve pressure and prevent permanent damage. Compartment syndrome occurs when elevated pressure within a closed anatomical space compromises circulation and tissue function. This condition can lead to irreversible muscle and nerve damage if not addressed promptly.

By performing a fasciotomy, surgeons create an incision to relieve the pressure, allowing for adequate perfusion and oxygenation of the tissues within the compartment. This intervention aims to prevent necrosis and maintain the viability of the muscles and nerves, thus preserving limb function and preventing severe long-term complications.

Other options, while important considerations in the broader management of limb injuries, do not address the immediate and critical need to relieve the pressure caused by compartment syndrome. Stabilizing a fracture or preparing for surgical repair are procedures that may follow if appropriate but do not directly alleviate the acute pressure that characterizes compartment syndrome. Improving blood circulation is a potential outcome of relieving the pressure, but it is not the primary objective of the fasciotomy itself in this scenario.