Mechanical edema (o. mecanicum) is a concept used in medicine to refer to edema that develops due to mechanical compression or tissue trauma when normal blood circulation and lymphatic drainage are disrupted. This can happen due to various reasons, such as sprains, bone fractures, hematomas, inflammation of the bursae and other injuries.
Mechanical edema can be dangerous and cause serious complications if not treated promptly. The most common complications are inflammation, blood infection, loss of limb function, and even complete loss of function. Therefore, when the first signs of mechanical edema appear, you need to consult a doctor.
The first symptom of mechanical edema is an increase in tissue volume beyond the normal size. The tumor may spread to one or more joints, vessels or nerves. The skin over the swelling may appear taut and covered with veins. When tissue is injured, a hematoma may form, which manifests itself as the presence of areas of dark skin with a blue tint.
Treatment of mechanical edema involves a comprehensive approach, including drug therapy, as well as physical therapy and surgical methods. In some cases, bandages and other orthopedic devices may be used. The doctor makes a decision depending on the degree of damage and the patient’s condition. It is important to know that if you miss the first few days of treatment for edema, serious complications can develop. For example, inflammation of the lymph nodes (lymphadenitis) can lead to an abscess, which will require additional medical intervention.
What are the causes of mechanical edema? The causes of mechanical edema can be different. It may occur under the following circumstances:
1. Tissue injury: sprained ligament, joint dislocation, fracture, etc. 2. Tissue compression: for 2nd and 3rd degree burns, frostbite, blockage of blood vessels and general loss of strength and aging. 3. Pressure on tissue