What complications of fractures would be relevant to the client with a fracture of the tibia and fibula?
The following complications may be noted:
- Neurovascular compromise.
- Compartment syndrome.
- Peroneal nerve injury.
- Infection.
- Gangrene.
- Osteomyelitis.
- Delayed union, nonunion, or malunion.
- Amputation or skin loss.
What causes an isolated fibula fracture?
Isolated fibular fractures, when the ankle joint is unaffected, often can be treated with simple protection. Known as a lateral malleolus fracture, these injuries occur when the ankle twists or bends awkwardly and the inner (medial) side of the ankle is unaffected.
Can you walk on a proximal fibula fracture?
You may walk on your leg as comfort allows although you may find it easier to walk with crutches in the early stages. If after 6 weeks you still have significant pain or swelling, or are struggling to wean out of the boot, then please get in touch with our team.
Which structure is easily damaged when fracture occurs at the neck of fibula?
The common peroneal nerve crosses the fibular neck. This nerve is susceptible to injury from a fibular neck fracture, the pressure of a splint, or during surgical repair. This can result in foot drop and sensation abnormalities.
How is a proximal fibula fracture treated?
The general process for healing a fibula fracture is immobilization with a splint or cast for several weeks, after which you might get a walking boot to help you walk. Recovery time depends on factors such as: the severity of the injury and the presence of any other injury at the same time.
How is the proximal fibula fracture of the knee treated?
Treatment of these fractures is dictated by the associated ligamentous or neurovascular injury. Most injuries may be treated symptomatically in a hinged knee brace and appropriate pain control. Early knee motion should be encouraged. The proximal fibula fracture in a Maisonneuve injury does not require stabilization.
Are there any drug references to fibular fractures?
No drug references linked in this topic. Fibular fractures, particularly those involving the ankle and the shaft just proximal, are common. They often result from minor trauma. Initial management is often provided by primary care and emergency clinicians, who must therefore be familiar with these injuries.
Can a proximal fibula fracture cause palpation?
There will generally be edema and tenderness to palpation directly over the proximal fibula, however, if there may not be obvious deformity of the leg if the tibia is intact. There may be effusion or hemarthrosis if intra-articular structures of the knee are injured.
Which is the insertion point of the proximal fibula?
The proximal fibula is the insertion point for the biceps femoris posterolaterally, the soleus posteriorly, and the peroneus longus and extensor digitorum longus anteiorly.