Diagnostics and Overview of Treatment

Diagnosis is made clinically by assessment of the size and nature of the external wound as well as obtaining radiographs of the bone at the location of the soft tissue injury.

1. Radiographic Imaging
   • Indicated for joint above and below fracture
2. CT Imaging
   • Indicated for peri-articular injuries and for evaluation of traumatic arthrotomy of the knee

Overview of Treatment

• Current evidence demonstrates that the risk of infection increases with increasing fracture severity and time to administration of the proper antibiotics.
• The goals of open fracture management are prevention of infection, fracture union, and restoration of function. These can be achieved by:
  • Careful Patient and Injury Evaluation
  • Administration of Prophylactic Antibiotic and Tetanus Toxoid
  • Surgical Debridement and Irrigation
  • Wound Management and Soft Tissue Coverage
  • Fracture Stabilization