Radiographic Evaluation, Complications and Neoplasia Flashcards
Why do we take post-op RADs?
To see if repair is acceptable or if changes need to be made
What 3 things are we checking on re-check RADs?
Is bone healing?
Are implants stable?
Any other concerning changes?
What are the 4 A’s of systematic assessment?
Apposition
Alignment
Apparatus
Activity
What is meant by Apposition?
Are fragments well apposed?
What is meant by Alignment?
Are joints above and below fracture aligned properly?
What is meant by Apparatus?
Is the fixator/implants appropriately placed and are they loosening or failing?
What is meant by Activity?
Is there evidence of:
- Bone healing
- Infection
- Osteopenia
- Malunion
What is the average healing time for a fx?
6-8 weeks
What are 5 things that affect bone healing?
Configuration/severity Soft tissue damage Stability Presence of infection Patient factors
What is delayed union?
Healing is prolonged, but callus is visibe
What is malunion?
Failure to reestablish normal form and function
What are the two types of nonunion?
Viable
Nonviable
What is viable nonunion?
Active fx with cartilage and fibrous tissue between fx ends
What is a nonviable nonunion?
Fracture ends are sclerotic with rounded bone edges and visible fracture gap
What are 4 types of “fracture disease”?
Joint stiffness
Musclecontracture/scarring
Disuse osteoporosis
Ligamentous laxity
What is quadriceps contracture?
Often irreversible replacement of muscle fibers by fibrous tissue, severe decrease in limb mobility
What 4 things can share quadriceps contracture as a complication?
Distal femoral fractures
Young patients
Prolonged immobilization
Extensive muscle/ST trauma
What are 4 clinical signs of quadriceps contracture?
Tight band at level of quad
Extension of tarsus and stifle with major decrease in ROM
Muscle atrophy
Difficulty ambulating on limb
What are 3 ways to prevent quadriceps contracture?
Use stable, rigid fixation to promote early limb use
Passive range of motion
NSAIDs
NOTE: Prevention is IMPERATIVE, treatment rarely successful