Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents following high-energy trauma to the left lower extremity. Reports severe pain, inability to bear weight, and visible deformity of the left thigh. No reported neurovascular deficits, numbness, or tingling in the distal extremity. Mechanism of injury: [Insert Mechanism].
Clinical Examination Findings
Left thigh: Obvious deformity, shortening, and swelling noted. Skin is intact with no open wounds (Gustilo-Anderson Grade 0). Palpation reveals point tenderness and crepitus over the femoral shaft. Neurovascular: Distal pulses (dorsalis pedis/posterior tibial) are 2+ and symmetric. Capillary refill < 2 seconds. Sensation intact to light touch in all dermatomes. Motor function: Unable to perform straight leg raise due to pain; distal toe flexion/extension intact.
Treatment Protocol
Immediate immobilization with traction splint applied. Analgesia administered. Radiographic imaging (AP/Lateral femur) confirms closed femoral shaft fracture. Plan: Urgent orthopedic consultation for intramedullary nailing. NPO status initiated. Prophylactic antibiotics and venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis ordered per protocol.