Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Presents acutely following high-energy trauma (MVA, fall from height). Chief complaints are immediate sharp, localized pain, rapid soft tissue swelling, visible deformity, and complete inability to bear weight. Non-ambulatory since incident.
Clinical Examination Findings
In obvious distress. ATLS primary survey intact. Hemodynamically stable.
Treatment Protocol
1. Immediate rigid immobilization with a well-molded splint (or skeletal traction if femur). 2. Strict elevation and continuous ice. 3. Strong parenteral analgesia administered. 4. Ordered urgent orthogonal radiographs. 5. Admitted NPO for definitive surgical intervention (IM Nailing vs. ORIF).