Fascia, Veins, Lymphatics, and Cutaneous Nerves of Lower Limb

Question 1

compartment syndrome

Answer 1

increased pressure in a confined anatomical space that adversely affects the circulation and threatens the function and viability of tissue w/i or distally - treated w/ fasciotomy

Question 2

fasciotomy

Answer 2

incision of overlying fascia or a septum

Question 3

where are varicose veins common in the lower limb?

Answer 3

posteromedial parts

Question 4

deep venous thrombosis (DVT)

Answer 4

swelling, warmth, erythema - can be caused by venous stasis

Question 5

venous stasis

Answer 5

stagnation caused by:

• incompetent, loose fascia that doesn’t resist muscle expansion -> less effective musculovenous pump
• external pressure on veins from bedding in long hospital stay or from tight cast/bandage
• muscular inactivity

Question 6

thrombophlebitis

Answer 6

DVT with inflammation around the involved veins

Question 7

what vein in the leg is used for coronary bypass and why?

Answer 7

great saphenous vein b/c:

• readily accessible
• sufficient length b/w tributaries to harvest
• walls have more muscular, elastic fibers than other superficial veins

Question 8

saphenous vein grafts

Answer 8

• used to bypass obstructions in blood vessels

- inverted so that the valves don’t obstruct blood flow

Question 9

saphenous cutdown

Answer 9

skin incision anterior to the medial malleolus - to insert a cannula for prolonged administration of blood, plasma expanders, electrolytes, or drugs

Question 10

what can cause moderate enlargement of the inguinal lymph nodes?

Answer 10

abrasions and minor sepsis

Question 11

where can you inject nerve block for the femoral nerve?

Answer 11

L2-4 -> 2 cm inferior to the inguinal ligament, about a finger’s breadth lateral to the femoral artery

Question 12

how can you test abnormalities of sensory function?

Answer 12

use a sharp object and ask the patient if pain is felt -> if no pain felt, spinal cord segments can be determined