Complications of fractures Flashcards
What are some immediate complications that can occur at the time of injury
shock frome severe haemorrhage
Injury to important internal organs
injury to local nerves or vessels
skin loss or damage
When does fat embolism syndrome occur
3-10 days after fracture of a long bone
How does fat embolism syndrome present
confusion and respiratory difficulty and a petechial rash
What might fat embolism syndrome lead to
acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
How can the severity of fat embolism syndrome be diminished
by correct fluid replacement, early immobilisation of the fracture and intensive respiratory care
What is Crush syndrome usually associated with
extensive soft-tissue damage or ischaemia of a large volume of tissue
How might Crush syndrome be prevented
removal of the damaged tissue before severe renal changes have occurred e.g. amputation of the limb
What is regional pain syndrome
a condition in which the limb becomes painful, swollen and discoloured with obvious circulatory changes and X-rays showing diffuse patchy porous of the bones
What is the management for regional pain syndrome
Patient must be encouraged to exercise the limb
Gabapentin - neuromodifying drug
How can we determine when union has occurred
when the presenting features have diminished (pain, swelling, tenderness, abnormal mobility)
How can X-rays be used to determine when union has occurred
they may show callus
What is an indication of delayed union
Absence of callus with mobility at the fracture site
How is a diagnosis of non-union made
clinical and radiologically
What is seen on Xray in non-union
Obvious gap between the bone ends
What is meant by malunion
A fracture has united in an unsatisfactory position from either a functional or cosmetic point of view
