Compartment syndrome & Avascular necrosis Flashcards
What is released in response to tissue swelling and compression of blood vessels at the site of a fracture, and what is the result?
Histamine
Causes vasodilation and edema
Ischemia at the site of a fracture causes accumulation of which toxin?
Lactic acid
What are the 3 P’s of early compartment syndrome?
- Pain
- Pressure
- Paresthesia
What are the 3 P’s of late compartment syndrome?
- Pallor
- Paralysis
- Pulselessness
What procedure is used to treat compartment syndrome?
Fasciotomy
What should NOT be done to treat patients with compartment syndrome?
Elevate or apply ice
If compartment syndrome is left untreated, how long does it take for irreversible muscle damage to occur?
4-6 hours
If compartment syndrome is left untreated, how long does it take for irreversible nerve damage to occur?
12-24 hrs
What is the common theme of conditions that lead to avascular necrosis?
Conditions that cause venous stasis
What kind of bones are most susceptible to avascular necrosis (give an example)?
Bones with terminal blood supply
e.g. proximal femur
How long does it take for ischemic bone to become necrotic?
12-48 hours
Why is necrotic bone easily fractured?
Cessation of protein deposition
What two things are formed around necrotic bone, causing structural instability?
- Granulation tissue (sclerosis)
- Reactive new bone
What is the final stage of avascular necrosis?
Bone or joint collapse
What is the term for bone reshaping treatment used in avascular necrosis?
Osteotomy
