Board Review: Compartment Syndrome  

Read ahead for pearls on an uncommon diagnosis: Knee (tibiofemoral) dislocation 

We practiced splinting last week with our orthopedic colleagues.  Knowledge of splinting complications is vital to both quality ED care and education of our patients upon discharge.  Read ahead for the details: 

A 32 year old man presents with a swollen painful digit.  Here are some pearls on flexor tenosynovitis!

Trench foot

· Temperatures above freezing + wet conditions = immersion injury

· Commonly from continuously wearing wet socks and shoes

History

· Repeated exposure to wet and cold

o Homeless, military, outdoor workers

· Occurs over several days to weeks

· Tingling or numbness most common symptom

Exam

· Damp, pale or mottled in color

20 yo male presents to the ED with left hip pain after MVC PTA. Patient was restrained back seat passenger, no LOC. Patient appears very uncomfortable on stretcher, with left leg propped on rolled blanket. Tenderness at left hip but no obvious deformity. LLE with DP pulses 2+, sensation intact, will wiggles toes.

Ever notice calcium deposition on an xray and wondered what it meant? Ever read a radiology report that indicated chondrocalcinosis? Check out below for a few pearls related to chondrocalcinosis & pseudogout.

Have you ever been concerned about a severe finger laceration where the distal portion appears dusky and cool?  Wondered if it could benefit from replantation?  Here is a quick tip to help!