How do you recognise compartment syndrome in a young motorcyclist with a closed fracture of the tibia?
Compartment syndrome is relatively rare but when identified needs immediate medical treatment. Early detection from nursing staff can save the limb or even a patient’s life. Most cases are related to the tibia (40%), with the forearm the second most common site of injury. Many texts refer to recognition using the five Ps: Pain, paraesthesia, paralysis, pulslessness and pallor, the latter two being late signs, but there are others. Increasing pain on passive stretching of muscles is one such indicator. Pain is often described as being out of proportion to the injury and a high level of suspicion is essential to early detection. 5. What should you be aware of in a patient with a new plaster of Paris for a Colles fracture? Any bony injury incurs swelling and this can have devastating effects on a patient’s wellbeing in a plaster cast. Wherever possible, a back slab or incomplete circumferential support is used to accommodate or allow for any swelling. If swelling continues undetected, pai
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