Background Arthrocentesis, the puncture and aspiration of a joint, is an acknowledged, useful procedure that is easily performed in the emergency department (ED). It has been established as both a diagnostic and therapeutic tool for various clinical situations. When performed…
Bursitis and tendinitis are terms frequently used to describe a variety of common and often ill-defined regional musculoskeletal conditions characterized chiefly by pain and disability at the involved site. They are either periarticular or contained within specific soft tissue structures.…
Normal daily activities cannot easily be accomplished without walking, so patients with painful or infectious conditions of the feet often seek medical attention. This chapter focuses on procedures performed for common maladies of the foot. Other procedures on the foot…
Splints are used frequently in the emergency department (ED) for temporary immobilization of fractures and dislocations and for definitive treatment of soft tissue injuries. Patients with a variety of nontraumatic musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., gout, inflammatory joint diseases, infections, burns) also…
Joint dislocations are frequently encountered in patients seen in the emergency department (ED). They can range from a simple finger joint dislocation to limb- or life-threatening consequences of high-energy trauma. Keys to clinical assessment and radiographic evaluation of these injuries…
Extensor Tendons Extensor tendons are quite superficial, covered only by skin and a thin layer of fascia, and are thus highly susceptible to injury by commonly experienced trauma. Such injuries may result from lacerations, bites, or burns, but they may…
Rapid and appropriate emergency care of a patient with an amputated body part is crucial to the salvage and preservation of function. This chapter discusses the emergency management priorities of patients with amputation injuries, the acute care of amputated parts…
Modern emergency medical service (EMS) was created in 1966 as a result of the National Highway Safety Act. Since then, provision of medical care in the prehospital setting has undergone considerable change. Today's EMS providers perform many advanced lifesaving procedures.…
Patients with anorectal disorders frequently seek care in the emergency department (ED). The condition may be isolated or the anorectal complaint may be an outward manifestation of a serious underlying illness. A thorough history and physical examination must precede any…
When a patient is seen in the emergency department (ED) with a suspected abdominal hernia, the emergency clinician should consider three issues: (1) Is a palpable mass truly a hernia? (2) Is the hernia easily reducible or incarcerated? (3) Is…