Tibial shaft fracture

Background

• Open fracture is common due to minimal amount of subcutaneous tissue
• Fibula is often fractured as well

Clinical Features

• Localized pain/swelling
• Inability to bear weight

Treatment

• Long leg posterior splint
  • Knee at 5 degrees flexion, foot in slight plantarflexion
• Rule-out compartment syndrome

Disposition

• Consider discharge if low-energy injury and pt not at risk of compartment syndrome

See Also

• Fractures (Main)
• Tibia Fx (Peds)

Source

• Tintinalli