Case Study - Amputation in Disasters and Conflicts

Original Editors - Naomi O'Reilly

Top Contributors - Naomi O'Reilly, Kim Jackson and Olajumoke Ogunleye      

Title

Poly-trauma with right below-knee amputation and left open tibial fracture with associated peroneal nerve injury.

Thanks to Humanity and Inclusion for Case Study taken from Early Rehabilitation in Conflicts and Disasters.

Abstract

Distressed six-year-old presented to an Emergency Medical Team with right below-knee guillotine amputation and left open tibial fracture with associated peroneal nerve injury.

Key Words 

Poly-trauma, Amputation, Open Fracture, Peripheral Nerve Injury, Peroneal Nerve, Child, Trauma

Patient Characteristics

A six-year-old child presented to an EMT for closure of a below-knee guillotine amputation, wearing a full leg cast on their other leg. On further investigation, it was revealed that this cast was hiding an open tibial fracture, with an associated peroneal nerve injury. The management of injuries to the non-amputated side was vital for the child to able to walk using a prosthetic.

To complicate matters, the child was distressed by their injury and terrified of health staff. They were accompanied by a relative (not their parents). Managing their distress and educating them and their caregiver became an essential part of early rehabilitation - building trust before any physical rehabilitation could begin.

Resources

Early Rehabilitation in Conflict and Disasters, Humanity and Inclusion