Injury recognition involves comparing important historical features like a fall onto an outstretched hand, physical exam findings such as the nature of the pain, and sometimes-subtle radiographic clues.
Treatment is usually surgical.
M ost traumatic orthopedic injuries involve common sprains, strains, or fractures that are rapidly treated. However, the unsuspecting physician occasionally may be blindsided by an unusual trauma case that, if misdiagnosed, could result in serious disability. Among such potential disasters are fractures associated with occult dislocations. Though it is important to look for a fracture in trauma cases, it is equally important to diagnose any dislocation. Physicians, therefore, must maintain a meticulous and thoughtful approach to extremity trauma.