Problems in Compound Fractures

Due to the soft-tissue injury involved, compound fractures represent surgical emergencies and require a sophisticated management protocol and appropriate grading to achieve uncomplicated healing and complete functional restitution. Compound fractures are very often associated with additional injuries, and the primary care and priorities of multiply traumatized patients must be considered. The difficulty lies in determining what steps and procedures should be instituted and in what sequence. Therefore the surgeon must be familiar with the relative timing, risks, and benefits of the available treatment options, not only for a single injury but for the patient’s overall profile of injuries and areas at risk.