Trauma Flashcards
How should an open fracture be managed?
Check neurovascular status of limb
Remove gross contamination
Take photo
Cover wound in saline soaked gauze and splint
IV antibiotics
Wound washout, debridement & stabilisation within 24 hours
What local factors can lead to delayed union?
Infection, segmental #, scaphoid, distal tibia, 5th metatarsal
What systemic factors can lead to delayed union?
DM, smoking, HIV, steroids, NSAIDs
Which nerve is a mid shaft humerus # likely to damage?
Radial
Which nerve is a fibula neck # likely to damage?
Common peroneal
Which nerve is a supracondylar # likely to damage?
Median
Which nerve is a shoulder dislocation likely to damage?
Axillary
Which nerve is a hip likely to damage?
Sciatic
What is the definition of osteoporosis?
Bone mineral density at least 2.5 standard deviations below the average value for a young healthy person of the same race and sex
What is the definition of osteopaenia?
Bone mineral density 1 standard deviations below the average value for a young healthy person of the same race and sex
What forms part of a primary survey?
Airway maintenance and cervical spine control Breathing and ventilation Circulation with haemorrhage control Disability: neuro status Exposure and environment control
What are the principles of treating fractures?
Reduce
Stabilise and preserve blood supply
Rehabilitate
What is a pathological fracture?
A fracture through abnormal bone
What is patient controlled analgesia?
Self-administration of a small bolus of IV opioid - should be pressed at onset of discomfort
What are signs of compartment syndrome?
Pain not responding to analgesia
Red, swollen limb
Pain exacerbated by passive stretch
