Final answer:
Expansion of bone cement within the medullary canal during hardening can cause intramedullary hypertension and potentially lead to hypercalcemia, which is an elevation of calcium levels in the blood that can have effects similar to hyperparathyroidism.
Step-by-step explanation:
As bone cement hardens it expands within the medullary canal, causing intramedullary hypertension that can lead to hypercalcemia. This process may also hinder adequate nutrient delivery to the cells within bones, such as chondrocytes, ultimately leading to their death. The resulting increase in calcium levels due to osteogenic activity might reflect systemic hyperparathyroidism, with similar elevations in blood calcium that could interfere with various bodily functions, including cardiac function, through vascular calcification. Compartment syndrome occurs when the pressure within a muscle compartment exceeds the capillary filling pressure, resulting in decreased blood flow and potential tissue damage. If not treated promptly, compartment syndrome can lead to tissue death and permanent damage.