Orthopaedics

Question 1

Define traumatic arthrotomy

Answer 1

A soft tissue injury over a joint that penetrates the joint space

Question 2

Define acute compartment syndrome

Answer 2

It occurs when pressure rises within a confined space resulting in reduction of blood flow to tissues

Question 3

State 5 complications of acute compartment syndrome

Answer 3

Infection
Contracture
Sensory loss - neurological injury
Chronic pain
Amputation
Rhabdomyolysis

Question 4

Describe the pathophysiology of acute compartment syndrome

Answer 4

Tissue damage disrupts gradient between arterial and venous pressure systems> pressure increase > reduced blood flow> tissue ischemia > cellular injury > release of fluid > further increase in pressure

Question 5

State 5 risk factors of compartment syndrome

Answer 5

Trauma- fracture, soft tissue injury
Fluid infusion
Injection injuries
Snake bite
Exercise
Burns

Question 6

State 5 classical symptoms for compartment syndrome

Answer 6

Pain out of proportion or on passive movement
Pressure
Paresthesia
Paralysis
Pallor
Pulselessness

Question 6

State 3 wound care options for acute compartment syndrome aftercare

Answer 6

Primary
Primary with pie crust
Split thickness skin graft

Question 6

Describe how to measure compartment pressure and state the pressure suspicious of ACS

Answer 6

Diastolic BP- compartment P
Suspicious if <30