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Tibial shaft fracture
From WikEM
Contents
Background
- Open fracture is common due to minimal amount of subcutaneous tissue
- Fibula is often fractured as well
Clinical Features
- Localized pain/swelling
- Inability to bear weight
Differential Diagnosis
Distal Leg Fractures
- Tibial plateau fracture
- Tibial shaft fracture
- Pilon fracture
- Maisonneuve fracture
- Tibia fracture (peds)
- Ankle fracture
- Foot and toe fractures
Management
- Long leg posterior splint
- Knee at 5 degrees flexion, foot in slight plantarflexion
- Rule-out compartment syndrome
Disposition
- Consider discharge if low-energy injury and patient not at risk of compartment syndrome
