Multi-disciplinary Approach for Managing Paediatric Lower Limb Trauma
Lower limb trauma may lead to loss of limb, especially if accompanied by soft tissue damage and bone defects. This situation is particularly devastating in younger population due to severe psychological impact. Fortunately, incidence of such cases is low. Management of lower limb trauma in paediatric age group should follow algorithms guiding the management plan for such cases by a team consisting of specialists from various fields of surgery and medicine. Experts from paediatric orthopaedics, plastic surgery and physiotherapy should be taken on board to manage complex lower limb trauma in paediatric population. Once the limb has been stabilized by splints, prophylactic tetanus and antibiotics should be administered in ER. Delayed or immediate closure is attempted according to the condition of soft tissue. Skin grafting may be required for definitive coverage of wound. The fractures are managed either by external fixation or internal fixation according to the presentation of the injury. Management of lower limb trauma demands multidisciplinary approach in order to prevent medical, surgical, physiological, cosmetic, and psychological problems. Source: Lower limb paediatric trauma with bone and soft tissue loss: Ortho-plastic management and outcome in a major trauma centre https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0020138320302850 (Image shows trauma to medial aspect of foot and ankle in 5 years old patient. Taken from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0020138320302850)