principles of fracture management

Question 1

what are the purposes on fracture reduction?

Answer 1

restoring anatomical alignment of fracture or dislocation

Question 2

what are the clinical requirements of fracture reduction?

Answer 2

painful, requires analgesia or conscious sedation

Question 3

what are the purposes for immobilising a fracture aka hold?

Answer 3

simple splints and plaster casts can be used

• immobilise joint to prevent displacement
• help pain management

make sure plasters are non circumferential so fracture can swell

Question 4

what are the clinical requirements for immobilising a fracture?

Answer 4

• if patient can weight bear
• if they need thromboprophylaxis (e.g are non weight bearing and immobilised)
• advise over compartment syndrome

Question 5

what is the process of rehabilitation post fracture?

Answer 5

intensive period of physiotherapy to help loss of ability yo bear weight or frailty

Question 6

what is the use of ultrasound in stimulating fracture healing?

Answer 6

EXOGEN helps patients with nonunion to avoid surgery.

a portable device used by patients at home, delivering low intensity pulsed USS when applied to skin over fracture. each treatment is 20 minutes.

Question 7

what are the stages of fracture healing?

Answer 7

1) haematoma
2) inflammation
3) callus
4) consolidation
5) remodelling