Surgery, with Special Reference to PodiatryStern, Maximilian
Science
Surgery, with Special Reference to Podiatry
Stern, Maximilian
Foot -- Surgery; Surgery
+Multiple Fracture.+ The term _multiple fracture_ is applied to the
simultaneous fracture of two or more non-adjacent bones, and also to
those cases in which two or more fractures of the same bone exist, and
the lines are not continuous with each other. Such multiple fractures
are usually the result of direct violence.
+Complicated Fracture.+ When a fracture is accompanied by injuries of
the viscera, nerves, etc., the term _complicated fracture_ is applied.
Such a fracture may be simple or compound. The term complicated, as
ordinarily employed, is limited to those fractures which are
accompanied by local, rather than by general complications.
+Symptoms of a Recent Fracture.+ In the examination of a patient who has
sustained a recent fracture, procedure should be as follows: the
history of the patient and of the accident should be taken; an
examination should be made for objective signs, like deformity,
abnormal mobility, crepitus, and ecchymosis; subjective symptoms, such
as pain and loss of function of the limb should be ascertained; an
X-ray picture should be taken and every possible precaution observed
to exclude distortion or exaggeration.
+Treatment of Fractures.+ _First Aid._ The treatment of fracture may be
said to begin from the moment of its occurrence. Much can be done for
the comfort of the patient and correct union of the fracture by
intelligent treatment during the first hours.
The proper temporary fixation of the limb, the mode of transportation,
and the removal of the clothing, all require special mention.
The use of first aid dressings, those which can be used until more
permanent and suitable ones can be applied, varies, of course, with
the individual bone affected. In fractures of the tibia, fibula and
foot, as well as in those of the lower half of the femur, the use of
the blanket splint will be found of great aid. Instead of a blanket, a
long pillow or soft cushion can be employed in the same manner.
The “blanket splint” can be readily made by folding a blanket in such
a manner that it extends from the middle of the injured thigh to below
the foot. Two pieces of narrow, strong board, or better still, two
broomsticks are rolled up in the blanket, one at either end. The
rolled-up blanket is now turned in so that the board supports with
their enveloping turns of blanket, lie upon the posterior surface.
Thus, a trough is formed in which the limb is placed and firmly
secured by loops of bandage, one below the foot, the second just above
the ankle, the third below the knee, and the fourth near the upper end
of the blanket.
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