You are called to assess a patient awaiting orthopaedic admission for a complex lower-leg fracture requiring operative fixation. The registrar has placed the patient in a laterally split above-knee cast, and nursing staff are concerned about increasing pain and distress. The initial X-ray before immobilisation is shown.
Lower-leg X-ray.
List six radiological abnormalities on the image.
(Marked out of 6.0)
/ 6
Apart from increasing pain, list four examination features that would suggest leg compartment syndrome.
(Marked out of 4.0)
/ 4
Your assessment is highly concerning for compartment syndrome, and the orthopaedic registrar cannot leave theatre for at least another hour. State four immediate management priorities.
(Marked out of 4.0)
/ 4
Total Score: 0 / 14
Percentage: 0%
Comments are closed for this SAQ.