OCC Fracture Types & Casting Indications Flashcards

A Maisonneuve fracture is characterized by:

Answer: A proximal fibula fracture associated with a medial ankle injury

Maisonneuve fractures result from external rotation forces causing a proximal fibula fracture with associated ankle ligamentous or medial malleolus injury — easy to miss without a full-leg X-ray.

A comminuted fracture is best described as:

Answer: A fracture with three or more bone fragments

Comminuted fractures involve multiple fragments, typically from high-energy trauma, and often require surgical fixation rather than casting alone.

Which type of fracture is suggested by a spiral pattern on X-ray in a non-ambulatory infant?

Answer: Non-accidental trauma (child abuse) must be considered

Spiral fractures in non-ambulatory infants are a well-recognized radiographic red flag for non-accidental trauma and mandate a mandatory report and full skeletal survey.

The Ottawa Ankle Rules help clinicians determine:

Answer: Whether ankle X-rays are needed based on specific tenderness and weight-bearing ability

The Ottawa Ankle Rules are validated clinical criteria that guide X-ray ordering for ankle injuries, reducing unnecessary imaging.

A pathologic fracture is defined as a fracture occurring:

Answer: Through bone weakened by underlying disease such as tumor or osteoporosis

Pathologic fractures occur through abnormal bone and may occur with minimal trauma; the underlying condition must be addressed alongside fracture management.

Which cast provides the best immobilization for a metatarsal shaft fracture that requires protected weight-bearing?

Answer: Short leg walking cast or walking boot

A short leg walking cast or removable walking boot immobilizes the forefoot while allowing controlled weight-bearing and ambulation.