Managing dislocations of the hip, knee, and ankle in the emergency department

Abstract

Dislocation of the major joints of the lower extremities--hip, knee, and ankle--can occur due to motor-vehicle crashes, falls, and sports injuries. Hip dislocations are the most common, and they require emergent management to prevent avascular necrosis of the femoral head. Knee dislocations are uncommon but potentially dangerous injuries that can result in amputation due to the potential for missed secondary injury, especially if they are reduced spontaneously. Isolated ankle dislocations are relatively rare, as most ankle dislocations involve an associated fracture. This review presents an algorithmic approach to management that ensures that pain relief, imaging, reduction, vascular monitoring, and emergent orthopedic consultation are carried out in a timely fashion.

• Authors: Caylyne Arnold, Zane Fayos, David Bruner, Dylan Arnold
• Journal: Emergency medicine practice (Emerg Med Pract) Vol. 19 Issue 12 Pg. 1-28 (Dec 2017) ISSN: 1559-3908 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 29185671 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2017 EB Medicine. All rights reserved.

Topics

• Ankle Injuries (diagnosis, surgery, therapy)
• Ankle Joint
• Diagnosis, Differential
• Emergency Service, Hospital
• Hip Dislocation (diagnosis, surgery, therapy)
• Humans
• Joint Dislocations (diagnosis, surgery, therapy)
• Knee Dislocation (diagnosis, surgery, therapy)