Description
This presentation, delivered by consultant trauma and knee surgeon Jill Rutherford-Davis from Salford, outlines the crucial principles in treating periarticular fractures—those involving joints or their immediate vicinity. The talk begins with a definition of periarticular fractures and emphasizes the need for careful diagnosis, as these injuries can affect various structures, including ligaments, cartilage, and tendons. Rutherford-Davis highlights the importance of understanding the mechanism of injury and predicting who is at risk for such fractures, particularly in athletes.
Throughout her talk, she covers the management of these injuries, detailing the necessity of thorough assessment, including neurovascular examinations to check for potential artery injuries, especially in the context of knee fractures. She discusses the importance of performing proper imaging studies, such as CT and MRI scans, to guide treatment plans. Additionally, she stresses the relevance of surgical principles, including reduction of fractures to restore joint anatomy and function and ensuring stability for optimal healing.
Rutherford-Davis elaborates on the impact of soft tissue injuries associated with these fractures, noting that timely intervention and rehabilitation are pivotal for recovery. She acknowledges common complications like arthrofibrosis and post-traumatic arthritis which may arise even in seemingly well-managed cases. The presentation concludes with a call for a multidisciplinary approach in treatment and rehabilitation to ensure comprehensive care for patients with periarticular fractures.