Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics & Trauma
Volume 2, Issue 2 , Pages 69-76, December 2011

The floating knee injury

  • Ritabh Kumar, MS (Ortho) MCh Ortho (UK)

      Affiliations

    • Corresponding Author InformationCorrespondence: Dr. Ritabh Kumar, Chief of Trauma Services, Department of Orthopedics, Indian Spinal Injuries Center, Sector C, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi – 110070

Chief of Trauma Services, Department of Orthopedics, Indian Spinal Injuries Center, Sector C, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi – 110070

Article Outline

Abstract 

Floating knee injury is described as the simultaneous ipsilateral disruption of skeletal integrity above and below the knee. It is usually associated with high-energy impact and often a part of polytrauma. Management of associated life-threatening injuries should take precedence over the orthopedic injury. The soft tissue trauma to the limb is significant and it is prudent to be wary. Despite a high complication rate, early skeletal stabilization and timely postoperative rehabilitation offer the best chance of a favorable outcome.

Keywords:  Damage control , fat embolism , floating knee , ligament laxity , polytrauma

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PII: S0976-5662(11)60047-7

doi:10.1016/S0976-5662(11)60047-7

Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics & Trauma
Volume 2, Issue 2 , Pages 69-76, December 2011

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