ISCHAEMIA COMPLICATING CLOSED TIBIAL AND FIBULAR SHAFT FRACTURES

Abstract

1. The frequency of variable degrees of ischaemia of soft tissue in closed tibial and fibular shaft fractures is emphasised.

2. Two cases with ischaemia of calf musculature are described.

3. A follow-up study of 100 cases of closed tibial shaft fractures is analysed; ten patients were found to be affected.

4. The anatomical and pathological changes are discussed.

5. A plea is made for early surgical exploration in cases manifesting signs of ischaemia.