Lower Limb Fractures

Question 1

What bones are included in lower limb fractures?

Answer 1

femur, tibia, fibula, foot bones

Lower limb fractures can involve any of these specific bones.

Question 2

What are intrinsic risk factors for lower limb fractures?

Answer 2

• increasing age (osteoporosis, reduced muscle mass)
• women (post-menopausal bone loss)
• genetics (osteogenesis imperfecta)
• nutritional deficiencies (vitamin D, calcium)
• medications (glucocorticoids, PPIs)

Intrinsic factors are internal to the individual and affect bone health.

Question 3

What are extrinsic risk factors for lower limb fractures?

Answer 3

• trauma (falls, sports injuries, violence)
• lifestyle choices (sedentary lifestyle, high-risk activities)
• mechanical stressors (overuse or repetitive strain)

Extrinsic factors are external influences that can lead to fractures.

Question 4

What type of fractures are classified under hip fractures?

Answer 4

• intracapsular fractures
  
  • femoral head
  • femoral neck
  • displaced
  • undisplaced
• extracapsular fractures
  
  • intertrochanteric
  • subtrochanteric

Hip fractures can be further categorized based on their location and displacement.

Question 5

What types of shaft fractures are associated with the femur?

Answer 5

• high energy trauma
• transverse
• oblique
• spiral

Shaft fractures can differ in their patterns and causes.

Question 6

What fractures are included in knee injuries?

Answer 6

• tibial plateau fractures
• patellar fractures

Knee injuries can involve the tibia and patella specifically.

Question 7

What types of fractures can occur at the ankle?

Answer 7

• malleolar fractures
• pilon fractures

Ankle fractures can be classified based on the specific bone involved.

Question 8

What types of fractures can occur in the foot?

Answer 8

• metatarsal fractures
• phalangeal fractures

Foot fractures are categorized based on the specific bones affected.

Question 9

What are common clinical features of lower limb fractures?

Answer 9

• pain
• deformity
• inability to weight bear
• swelling and bruising
• crepitus
• nerve injury
• vascular injury
• compartment syndrome

These features help in identifying and diagnosing fractures.

Question 10

What is the first step in the investigation of lower limb fractures?

Answer 10

thorough clinical assessment

A comprehensive clinical assessment is crucial before further imaging.

Question 11

What imaging technique is commonly used for lower limb injuries?

Answer 11

plain radiograph (x-ray)

X-rays are often the first imaging choice for detecting fractures.

Question 12

What are the Ottawa Ankle and Foot Rules?

Answer 12

guidelines for x-ray use in ankle and foot injuries

These rules help determine the necessity of radiographic imaging.

Question 13

What are the components of management for lower limb fractures?

Answer 13

• initial assessment
• pain management
• immobilisation
• definitive treatment

Management includes both immediate care and long-term treatment strategies.

Question 14

What are options for pain management in lower limb fractures?

Answer 14

• paracetamol
• NSAIDs
• opioids
• regional nerve blocks

Various medications and techniques are available for managing pain.

Question 15

What does immobilisation involve in the management of fractures?

Answer 15

• temporary splinting
• casting

Immobilisation is essential to prevent movement and promote healing.

Question 16

What are the conservative treatment options for lower limb fractures?

Answer 16

• cast immobilisation for stable fractures

Conservative management is often sufficient for stable fractures.

Question 17

What surgical interventions are available for lower limb fractures?

Answer 17

• internal fixation (nails, screws, plates)
• external fixation
• joint replacement

Surgical options vary based on the type and severity of the fracture.