18 Questions
What is the purpose of using a splint for fractures?
To immobilize the fracture
Which material is a Scotch Cast typically made of?
Natural polymer
Which is a local complication associated with fractures?
Pressure sores
What is typically assessed in the assessment of fractures regarding the patient's neurovascular status?
Sensations in the injured extremity
What is one of the late complications of fractures?
Joint instability
What is the purpose of immobilization in treating fractures?
To maintain bone alignment after reduction
What should be examined on the skin when assessing fractures?
Lacerations and abrasions
Which type of internal fixation is suitable for fractures of long bones and rotational fractures?
Intramedullary nails
When is external fixation typically used in the treatment of fractures?
When internal fixation is difficult to apply or has failed
What is the purpose of skin traction in fracture treatment?
To stabilize severe fractures
What distinguishes open reduction from closed reduction in treating fractures?
One involves a surgical procedure while the other does not
In skeletal traction, where is the pulling force applied?
Extremities of the body
What is the purpose of skin traction?
To prevent or reduce muscle spasm
Which type of traction is used for short-term treatment until surgery is possible?
Skin traction
What is the purpose of immobilization in fractures?
To hold bone fragments in correct alignment until union occurs
Which method is NOT used for external fixation of fractures?
Internal fixators
How is skeletal traction different from skin traction?
Skeletal traction provides long-term pull, while skin traction is for immobilization
Which of the following is an example of immobilization by external fixation?
External fixators
Study Notes
Traction
- Prevents or reduces muscle spasm
- Immobilizes and reduces fractures or dislocations
- Treats joint or part of the body with pathologic condition
Skin Traction
- An adhesive strap is applied on the skin and traction is applied
- Used for short-term treatment until skeletal traction or surgery is possible
Skeletal Traction
- Provides long-term pull that keeps injured bones and joints aligned
Immobilization of Fractures
- After reduction, bone fragments must be immobilized until union occurs
- Methods of external fixation include bandages, casts, splints, traction, and external fixators
- Metal implants used for internal fixation serve as internal splints to immobilize the fracture
- Strapping: fractured part is strapped to an adjacent part of the body (e.g., finger fractures)
- Sling: used for fractures of the upper extremity to relieve pain where rigid immobilization is not necessary
Reduction of Fractures
- Closed reduction: non-surgical, manual realignment of bone fragments to their previous anatomic position
- Open reduction: correction of bone alignment through a surgical procedure, includes internal fixation of the fracture
Internal Fixation
- Screws: used for fixing small fragments onto the main bone
- Wires: applied percutaneously without exposing the fracture, used for fractures that heal quickly
- Plates: used for treating metaphyseal fractures of long bones
- Intramedullary nail: suitable for fractures of long bones and rotational fractures
- Tension bands: created by wires and cables, used to compress bone fragments together
External Fixation
- The bone is transfixed above and below the fracture with screws or pins connected to each other by a frame or rigid bars outside the skin
- Used for severe fractures or when internal fixation is difficult to apply or has failed
Immobilization of Fractures
- POP/Scotch Cast: made of natural (plaster of Paris), synthetic (acrylic), latex-free polymer, or a hybrid of materials
- Splints and braces: used for immobilizing fractures, either temporary during transportation
Complications of Fractures
- General: hemorrhage, hypovolemic shock, fat embolism, cardiopulmonary failure
- Local: visceral injury, vascular injury, nerve injury, compartment syndrome, hematoma, infection, gangrene, fracture blisters, and pressure sores
- Late complications: delayed union, malunion, non-union, avascular necrosis, muscle contracture, joint instability, and osteoarthritis
Assessment of Fractures
- Mechanism of injury
- Location, character, and intensity of pain
- Neurovascular status: ask patient to describe sensations in injured extremity
- Functional mobility: observe patient's ability to change position
- Physical examination: examine skin for lacerations, abrasions, ecchymosis, edema, and temperature
Test your knowledge on the differences between skin traction and skeletal traction, their purposes, and applications in treating fractures, dislocations, and pathologic conditions. Understand the importance of immobilizing joints and reducing muscle spasms for effective treatment.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
