tibia & fibula fractures

Question 1

why are tibial and fibular fractures predisposed to open fractures

Answer 1

subcutaneous position (outside in or inside out)

Question 2

management of low energy tibia/fibular fractures

Answer 2

1) undisplaced/minimally displaced > cast from thigh to metatarsal neck
2) displaced fracture: M&R under GA + cast
3) skeletal fixation
- diaphyseal fractures: locked intramedullary nailing
- metaphyseal fractures: plate
- metaphyseal + shaft: external fixation

Question 3

management of high energy tibia/fibular fractures

Answer 3

external fixation

Question 4

complications of tibial/fibular injury

Answer 4

1) vascular injuries: popliteal artery
2) compartment syndrome
3) infection
4) malunion > predispose to early OA
5) delayed/nonunion
6) joint stiffness
7) complex regional pain syndrome

Question 5

most common long bone fracture

Answer 5

tibial diaphysis fracture (commonly open fracture)