|
August 2007 Radiology Quiz
This patient is a 42 year old male who presents to the ED drunk off his ### and was found sleeping on the ground. On physical exam you notice ecchymosis of his ankle. Before you send him to detox you order the following x ray.
Questions:
Describe what you see?
- Lateral view shows a fracture thru the calcaneus
Diagnosis: Fracture of the calcaneous
What is the mechanism of injury? The most common mechanism is a fall from a significant height where the weight of the body is absorbed by the heel. 3. What percentage of the above fracture is associated with other injuries? 50% 4. What percentage of the above fractures is associated with other injuries to the lower extremities? 26% 5. What percentage of the above fractures bilateral? 7% 6. What percentage of these fractures is associated with thoracolumbar spine injuries? 10% 7. What are the complications of this injury?
- Calcaneus fractures are associated with a 10% incidence of compartment syndrome of the foot.
- Posttraumatic arthritis with stiffness and chronic pain is the most frequent complication.
- Spur formation with chronic pain or nerve entrapment may complicate the management of these fractures.
Trivia: Where was Blue Oyster Cult formed? A: Long Island
|
