Description
In this presentation, Paul Tornetta discusses the state of the management of open fractures in the US, emphasizing that there have been no significant changes recently. He outlines the importance of appropriately addressing open fractures, particularly focusing on infection control and soft tissue management. Tornetta references a comprehensive analysis done by the OTA group on open fracture management that serves as a guide for practitioners. He highlights key factors influencing infection risk, including timely antibiotic administration, effective debridement, and the management of soft tissue injuries. The talk further delves into the critical nature of antibiotics, stressing the importance of timely intervention and the effectiveness of various antibiotic regimens in reducing infection rates. Tornetta supports his points with data from recent studies detailing the optimal timing for antibiotics and the relationship between surgical procedures and flap coverage. The conclusion of the presentation reaffirms that timely antibiotic administration, meticulous debridement, appropriate irrigation techniques, and the timing of definitive fixation are crucial in the successful management of open fractures.
DOI: 10.1302/3114-221303