Introduction Full casts are essential for providing circumferential fracture support and ensuring proper bone alignment during healing. Unlike backslabs, they offer three-point moulding, making them ideal for definitive fracture management. However, they are not recommended for acute emergency treatment due to swelling risks. This guide covers the step-by-step application of a wrist cast, key safety checks, and the principles […]
Introduction Backslab is a fundamental tool in orthopedic care, providing effective immobilization for fractures and painful injuries. Unlike full circumferential casts, backslabs offer semi-rigid support while allowing room for swelling, making them safer in acute injury management. This guide explores the different types of backslabs, their clinical indications, and detailed application techniques to ensure optimal patient
Introduction A nerve injury can significantly impact motor, sensory, and autonomic functions, leading to pain, weakness, or paralysis. Understanding the anatomy of peripheral nerves and the Seddon classification (neurapraxia, axonotmesis, neurotmesis) helps in diagnosing and managing these injuries effectively. Whether caused by trauma, pressure, or laceration, nerve damage varies in severity—some cases heal naturally, while others require surgical intervention. Anatomy of
Introduction: Haematoma Block Technique Understanding In emergency and orthopaedic environments, a haematoma block is a commonly utilised treatment to alleviate discomfort during fracture manipulation. Targeting the periosteum, it entails injecting a local anaesthetic straight into the fracture haematoma, therefore greatly lowering pain. Treating dorsally inclined distal radius fractures, sometimes referred to as Colles’s fractures, this
Introduction Severe limb trauma, often called a “mangled limb,” presents a critical dilemma: should surgeons attempt limb salvage or opt for early amputation? While saving the limb is ideal, certain situations demand immediate amputation to prioritize survival and long-term function. This article explores the clear indications for amputation, factors influencing the decision, and why scoring systems like the Mangled
The Mangled Limb: When Is Early Amputation Necessary? Read Post »
What Are Crush Injuries? Crush injuries occur when excessive force or pressure damages soft tissues, muscles, and bones. These injuries can result from traumatic events like building collapses or vehicle accidents, but they may also develop after prolonged immobility, such as from a drug overdose. Even closed injuries can lead to severe complications, making prompt
Crush Injuries: Causes, Symptoms, and Emergency Treatment Read Post »
Introduction to Leg Fasciotomy A leg fasciotomy is an emergency surgical procedure performed to relieve dangerously high pressure in muscle compartments. When compartment syndrome develops, immediate fasciotomy can mean the difference between saving a limb and permanent disability. This guide details the step-by-step surgical technique, post-operative care, and consequences of delayed treatment. Surgical Technique for Four-Compartment Leg Fasciotomy Preoperative Preparation Medial Incision:
Understanding Compartment Syndrome: A Surgical Emergency Compartment syndrome is a potentially limb-threatening condition that occurs when pressure builds up within a muscle compartment enclosed by fascia. This increased pressure compromises blood flow, leading to tissue ischemia and, if untreated, muscle and nerve necrosis. Recognizing and treating compartment syndrome promptly is crucial to prevent permanent disability. Other Ortho Topics: Orthopedics Surgery Key
Compartment Syndrome: Emergency Management, and Surgical Treatment Read Post »
Open Fractures: A Critical Orthopedic Emergency Open fractures represent some of the most challenging injuries in orthopedic trauma, characterized by a broken bone that communicates with the external environment through a breach in the skin. These injuries demand immediate, systematic management due to their high risk of infection, delayed healing, and potential limb-threatening complications. The Gustilo-Anderson classification system serves
Open Fractures: Classification, Emergency Management, and Surgical Treatment Read Post »
Introduction to Closed Soft Tissue Injuries In orthopedic trauma, closed soft tissue injuries often accompany fractures and significantly impact treatment outcomes. While fractures get most of the attention, the surrounding soft tissue damage—including contusions, hematomas, swelling, tenting, blisters, and degloving—can dictate healing timelines and surgical risks. Understanding these injuries helps orthopedic specialists optimize recovery and prevent complications like infection,
Closed Soft Tissue Injuries in Orthopedics And Its Management Read Post »
