Polytrauma

High velocity trauma accounts for most common cause for the deaths in younger individuals. Rapid transport to the trauma centre for appropriate assessment and treatment is essential as the chances of survival decrease with passing time.

The team approach is a prerequisite for the treatment as polytrauma is usually associated with multiple fractures, vital organ injuries and head injury. Fast assessment of injuries and prompt treatment can be lifesaving.

The role of orthopaedic surgeon in the form of prompt treatment of Musculo-skeletal injuries and initial stabilization of bones is vital. Initial bony stabilization can be either in the form of surgical intervention like either external fixator application or long bone IM nailing or non-surgical like traction and splintage. Definitive management of fractures can be done later when patient is fit for planned procedure.

The high velocity trauma usually is associated with complex pelvi-acetabular fractures (fractures of hip bones) and long bone fractures. The experienced surgeon well oriented in treatment of such fractures is a prerequisite for proper management of such polytrauma patients.