SOLVED PYQ PAPER-I
1.Quinsy (Peritonsillar Abscess) – Clinical Approach
Definition:
Quinsy is a collection of pus between the tonsillar capsule and the superior constrictor muscle of
the pharynx, usually a complication of acute tonsillitis.
Clinical Features:
Severe unilateral sore throat
Fever and malaise
"Hot potato" voice (muffled)
Dysphagia or odynophagia (painful swallowing)
Trismus (difficulty opening mouth)
Drooling
Swollen, fluctuant peritonsillar area (usually one side)
Uvula pushed to the opposite side
Diagnosis:
Clinical diagnosis is usually sufficient.
Oral examination: swelling, asymmetry, and uvular deviation.
CT scan of neck with contrast – used if diagnosis unclear or to differentiate from deep neck
space infection.
Management:
Initial Steps:
1. Hospital admission (moderate to severe cases or trismus)
2. Airway assessment
3. IV fluids if dehydrated
Medical Treatment:
IV antibiotics (e.g. amoxicillin-clavulanate or clindamycin)
Analgesics and antipyretics
Steroids (e.g. dexamethasone) may reduce inflammation and improve symptoms
Surgical Drainage:
Needle aspiration – first-line and often curative
Incision and drainage (I&D) – if needle aspiration fails
Quinsy tonsillectomy – rarely performed acutely; interval tonsillectomy done after 6 weeks in
recurrent cases
Complications:
Airway obstruction
Extension to parapharyngeal or retropharyngeal space
Sepsis
Internal jugular vein thrombosis (Lemierre's syndrome)
Recurrent peritonsillar abscess
2.TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation)
Definition:
TAVI (also called TAVR – Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) is a minimally invasive
procedure to replace a stenosed aortic valve that fails to open properly, without open-heart
surgery.
Indication:
Primarily used in patients with:
Severe aortic stenosis
Who are high-risk or inoperable for surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR)
Increasingly used in intermediate- and low-risk patients based on current guidelines
Patient Selection:
Symptoms: Dyspnea, angina, syncope (classic triad of aortic stenosis)
Confirmed severe aortic stenosis on echocardiography
Multidisciplinary Heart Team assessment (cardiologist, cardiac surgeon, anesthetist)
Access Routes:
1. Transfemoral (most common)
2. Transapical
3. Transaortic
4. Trans-subclavian/axillary
5. Transcarotid
Procedure:
1. Balloon valvuloplasty may be done to open the native valve
2. Bioprosthetic valve mounted on a balloon-expandable or self-expanding stent is advanced to
the aortic valve site
3. Valve deployed under imaging guidance (fluoroscopy and echocardiography)
Advantages:
Minimally invasive (especially important in elderly/frail)
Shorter hospital stay
Faster recovery
Reduced need for general anesthesia in many cases
Complications:
Vascular injury (due to large sheath size)
Stroke (due to embolization)
Paravalvular leak
Heart block requiring permanent pacemaker
Valve malposition or embolization
Aortic rupture (rare)
3.SICS (Small Incision Cataract Surgery)
Definition:
SICS is a manual, extracapsular cataract extraction technique in which the cataractous lens is
removed through a self-sealing scleral or corneoscleral tunnel (typically 6–7 mm), without
sutures, and an intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted.
Indications:
Senile cataract (most common)
Traumatic cataract
Congenital cataract
Cataract with poor mydriasis (with modifications)
Preoperative Preparation:
Detailed ophthalmic evaluation (visual acuity, slit-lamp exam, intraocular pressure, fundus
check)
Biometry for IOL power calculation
Medical fitness for surgery
Patient counseling and informed consent
Surgical Steps:
1. Anesthesia – usually peribulbar or retrobulbar block
2. Conjunctival peritomy – to expose sclera
3. Scleral tunnel incision – 6–7 mm made ~2 mm behind limbus
4. Capsulorhexis – continuous curvilinear or can-opener type
5. Hydrodissection – to loosen lens nucleus
6. Nucleus delivery – via viscoexpression or irrigating vectis
7. Cortex aspiration – using Simcoe cannula
8. IOL implantation – usually posterior chamber IOL in capsular bag
9. Wound closure – self-sealing; sutures not typically required
10. Antibiotics/steroids injected subconjunctivally
Advantages:
Low cost (ideal for developing countries)
No need for expensive phacoemulsification machine
Effective in hard cataracts
Self-sealing wound (fewer sutures)
Disadvantages:
Larger incision than phaco (slightly more induced astigmatism)
Longer healing time compared to phaco
Requires surgical skill for tunnel construction and nucleus delivery
Postoperative Care:
Topical antibiotics and steroids
Protective eye shield
Regular follow-up for visual acuity and intraocular pressure
Complications:
Wound leak
Iris prolapse
Posterior capsule rupture
Endophthalmitis
Cystoid macular edema
Posterior capsular opacification (late)
4.Cyanotic Congenital Heart Disease – Clinical Approach
Definition:
Cyanotic heart diseases are congenital cardiac defects that allow right-to-left shunting of
deoxygenated blood into systemic circulation, leading to cyanosis (bluish discoloration of skin
and mucosa due to reduced oxygen saturation).
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Pathophysiology:
Right-to-left shunt bypasses pulmonary circulation → mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated
blood → systemic hypoxia.
Causes include obstruction of pulmonary blood flow, abnormal communication between
chambers, or transposition of great vessels.
Mnemonic:
The "5 Ts" of Cyanotic Heart Disease
1. Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)
2. Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA)
3. Tricuspid Atresia
4. Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (TAPVR)
5. Truncus Arteriosus
Clinical Features:
Central cyanosis (not relieved by oxygen)
Clubbing (after 6 months)
Dyspnea on exertion
Poor feeding and failure to thrive in infants
Cyanotic spells (especially in TOF)
Fatigue and delayed milestones
Polycythemia (as compensation for hypoxia)
Murmurs (depending on defect)
Diagnostic Workup:
1. Pulse oximetry – low oxygen saturation
2. Chest X-ray:
Boot-shaped heart (TOF)
Egg-on-string appearance (TGA)
Snowman sign (TAPVR)
3. ECG – chamber hypertrophy patterns
4. Echocardiography – gold standard for anatomical diagnosis
5. Cardiac catheterization – detailed anatomy and pressures
6. Hyperoxia test – little or no improvement with 100% O₂ supports cyanotic CHD diagnosis
Management:
•Initial Stabilization:
Oxygen (may not fully correct hypoxia)
Prostaglandin E1 infusion – to keep ductus arteriosus open (especially in duct-dependent
lesions like TGA)
Correct acidosis, hypoglycemia, hypothermia
•Definitive Treatment:
Surgical repair – timing and type depend on specific defect:
TOF → total repair or BT shunt
TGA → arterial switch
TAPVR → anastomosis of pulmonary veins to left atrium
Tricuspid atresia → staged Fontan procedure
Truncus arteriosus → separation of pulmonary and systemic circulation with grafts
Complications:
Brain abscess
Stroke (due to paradoxical embolism)
Infective endocarditis
Growth retardation
Polycythemia-related thrombosis
5.Mallampati Score – Airway Assessment Tool
Definition:
The Mallampati score is a preoperative clinical assessment tool used to predict the ease of
endotracheal intubation by evaluating the visibility of oropharyngeal structures.
Procedure:
Patient is sitting upright, head in neutral position.
Mouth opened wide.
Tongue protruded fully without phonation.
Examiner observes visible structures in the oral cavity.
Classes of Mallampati Score:
1. Class I
Soft palate, fauces, uvula, and pillars are visible
→ Easy intubation
2. Class II
Soft palate, fauces, and uvula are visible
→ Usually easy
3. Class III
Soft palate and base of uvula are visible
→ Moderate difficulty
4. Class IV
Only hard palate is visible
→ High chance of difficult intubation
Clinical Relevance:
Helps anesthesiologists plan airway management.
Often used in combination with thyromental distance, neck mobility, and mouth opening for
complete airway evaluation.
Class III and IV are associated with higher risk of difficult laryngoscopy.
Limitations:
Subjective (depends on patient cooperation and examiner skill)
Can vary with posture or tongue effort
Best used as part of a comprehensive airway assessment
6. IABP – Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump
Definition:
Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP) is a mechanical circulatory support device used to augment
cardiac output and improve coronary perfusion by inflating and deflating a balloon in the
descending aorta synchronized with the cardiac cycle.
Mechanism of Action:
A balloon is placed in the descending thoracic aorta (via femoral artery).
Inflates during diastole → pushes blood back into the coronary arteries → increased coronary
perfusion.
Deflates just before systole → reduces aortic pressure → decreased afterload, easing LV
workload.
Mnemonic:
> "Inflate in diastole, deflate in systole"
Indications:
Cardiogenic shock (especially post-MI)
Acute LV failure
Refractory angina
Mechanical complications of MI (e.g. VSD, mitral regurgitation)
Bridge to definitive therapy (e.g. CABG, transplant)
High-risk PCI or failed PCI
Contraindications:
Severe aortic regurgitation
Aortic dissection
Severe peripheral vascular disease
Uncontrolled bleeding or coagulopathy
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Insertion:
Usually via femoral artery (percutaneous)
Positioned in descending thoracic aorta, 2–3 cm below the left subclavian artery
Placement confirmed by imaging (fluoroscopy or X-ray)
Monitoring:
ECG and arterial pressure waveform used for timing
Balloon timing must match cardiac cycle
Monitor for limb ischemia, bleeding, hemolysis, infection
Complications:
Limb ischemia (most common)
Aortic dissection or perforation
Balloon rupture
Thrombocytopenia
Infection at insertion site
Embolization
Weaning and Removal:
Gradual reduction in support (e.g. 1:1 → 1:2 assist ratio)
Remove when hemodynamics stabilize and underlying cause is managed
7.Bain Circuit – Anesthesia Breathing System
Definition:
The Bain circuit is a coaxial modification of the Mapleson D breathing system, used for
spontaneous or controlled ventilation during anesthesia. It is a semi-closed circuit with a fresh
gas flow system and a coaxial design.
Components:
Inner tube: Delivers fresh gas from the machine to the patient
Outer tube: Carries exhaled gases away from the patient
Reservoir bag: Allows manual ventilation
Adjustable pressure-limiting (APL) valve: Releases excess gas
Mask or airway connection: Interface with patient
Working Principle:
Fresh gas flows through the inner tube.
Exhaled gases travel back through the outer tube.
A high fresh gas flow (FGF) (2–3 times minute ventilation) prevents rebreathing of CO₂.
Suitable for short procedures, especially in healthy patients.
Advantages:
Lightweight and compact
Provides warming and humidification of inspired gases (due to coaxial design)
Low resistance to breathing (ideal for pediatric and spontaneous ventilation)
Easy to use and cost-effective
Fast response to changes in anesthetic concentration
Disadvantages:
Inner tube disconnection or kinking → risk of CO₂ rebreathing (called "Bain circuit
disconnection" hazard)
Requires high fresh gas flow → not economical for long surgeries
Not ideal in patients with poor lung function or requiring precise ventilation control
Uses:
Day-case surgeries
Transport of intubated patients
In pediatric anesthesia (with modification)
In settings with limited equipment (field anesthesia)
8.Mapleson Circuits – Anesthesia Breathing Systems
Definition:
Mapleson circuits are semi-open, non-rebreathing breathing systems used in anesthesia to
deliver fresh gas and remove CO₂. They are classified (A–F) based on the position of the fresh
gas flow (FGF), reservoir bag, and expiratory valve.
Types of Mapleson Circuits:
● Mapleson A (Magill's circuit)
Best for: Spontaneous ventilation
Worst for: Controlled ventilation
Low FGF needed (equal to minute ventilation)
● Mapleson D (and Bain circuit – a coaxial D)
Best for: Controlled ventilation
Worst for: Spontaneous ventilation
Requires higher FGF
● Mapleson E (Ayre’s T-piece)
No valve or bag
Low resistance – ideal for neonates
Requires high FGF
● Mapleson F (Jackson-Rees modification)
Same as E + bag
Allows manual ventilation and observation of chest movement
Common in pediatric anesthesia
9.Mechanical Heart Valve – Overview
Definition:
A mechanical valve is a prosthetic heart valve made from durable materials (like titanium,
carbon, or pyrolitic carbon), designed to replace a diseased native valve (usually aortic or
mitral), and last a lifetime with lifelong anticoagulation.
Types of Mechanical Valves:
1. Ball-and-cage valve
Example: Starr-Edwards valve
Oldest type, now rarely used
High thrombogenicity
2. Tilting disc valve
Example: Medtronic-Hall valve
Single leaflet that tilts to open
Better hemodynamics than ball valves
3. Bileaflet valve (most commonly used today)
Example: St. Jude Medical valve
Two semicircular leaflets that pivot
Excellent durability and flow characteristics
Indications:
Severe valvular disease (stenosis or regurgitation) requiring replacement
Young patients (< 50 years) where long durability is preferred
Patients already on long-term anticoagulation (e.g. AF, prosthetic valve)
Cases of redo surgery where tissue valve would fail
Advantages:
High durability (often lasts >25 years)
Lower risk of structural degeneration compared to bioprosthetic valves
Disadvantages:
Requires lifelong anticoagulation (e.g., warfarin)
Risk of bleeding and thromboembolism
Not ideal in:
Women planning pregnancy (teratogenic anticoagulants)
Patients with poor compliance
Audible click may be bothersome to some
Postoperative Management:
Lifelong warfarin anticoagulation
Target INR:
Aortic valve: 2.0–3.0
Mitral valve: 2.5–3.5 (higher risk of thrombosis)
Low-dose aspirin may be added in some cases
Regular INR monitoring
Complications:
Thrombosis and thromboembolism (stroke, limb ischemia)
Bleeding from anticoagulation
Infective endocarditis
Hemolysis (due to mechanical damage to RBCs)
Paravalvular leak
Valve dysfunction (rare but possible)
10.Sternotomy – Surgical Approach Overview
Definition:
Sternotomy is a surgical incision through the sternum (breastbone) used to gain access to the
heart, great vessels, lungs, and mediastinal structures. It is a standard approach in cardiac
surgery.
Types of Sternotomy:
1. Median Sternotomy (most common)
Vertical midline incision through the sternum
Widely used in open-heart surgeries (e.g., CABG, valve replacement)
2. Partial Sternotomy
Upper or lower part of the sternum is split
Used in minimally invasive surgeries
3. Transverse Sternotomy
Horizontal cut (rare)
Sometimes used in thoracic procedures
Indications:
Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)
Valve replacement or repair (aortic/mitral/tricuspid)
Congenital heart defect repairs (e.g., ASD, TOF)
Heart transplant
Great vessel surgery (e.g., aortic aneurysm repair)
Mediastinal tumor removal
Procedure (Median Sternotomy):
1. Patient is positioned supine with neck extended
2. Skin incision from suprasternal notch to xiphoid
3. Sternum divided longitudinally using a sternal saw
4. Rib spreaders are placed to open chest
5. After surgery, sternum is closed with stainless steel wires
6. Skin and subcutaneous tissues are sutured
Postoperative Care:
ICU monitoring (ventilation, hemodynamics)
Pain control (epidural, IV analgesics)
Sternal precautions (no lifting, support with pillow while coughing)
Early ambulation to reduce pulmonary complications
Complications:
Sternal wound infection (especially in diabetics or obese)
Mediastinitis (serious, life-threatening)
Sternal dehiscence (wound reopening)
Bleeding
Pneumothorax or hemothorax
Chronic sternal pain
Advantages:
Excellent exposure to entire mediastinum and heart
Allows complex multi-vessel and multi-valve surgeries
11.Glycine Irrigation Solution –
Definition:
Glycine irrigation solution is a non-electrolyte, hypotonic, sterile aqueous solution commonly
used for urologic and gynecologic endoscopic procedures, particularly during monopolar
electrosurgery to prevent electrical conduction.
Common Formulation:
1.5% Glycine solution (15 g/L)
Clear, colorless, non-conductive
Osmolarity: ~200 mOsm/L (hypotonic)
pH: ~6.4
Uses:
Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)
Bladder tumor resections
Hysteroscopic surgeries
Why Glycine?
Non-conductive: Safe with monopolar electrocautery
Transparent: Allows clear visualization during endoscopy
Low viscosity: Flows easily through irrigation channels
Hypoallergenic and non-toxic in limited volumes
Absorption Risks – TURP Syndrome:
When large amounts are absorbed through prostatic venous sinuses:
TURP Syndrome Features:
Fluid overload
Hyponatremia (dilutional)
Hypo-osmolality
CNS symptoms: nausea, confusion, seizures, coma
Visual disturbances (glycine metabolized to ammonia)
Bradycardia, hypertension or hypotension, pulmonary edema
Management of TURP Syndrome:
Stop procedure immediately
Administer hypertonic saline (3%) for severe hyponatremia
Diuretics (e.g., furosemide) for fluid overload
Support airway and breathing
ICU care in severe cases
Advantages:
Compatible with monopolar instruments
Inexpensive and widely available
Allows good endoscopic visibility
Disadvantages:
Risk of fluid absorption
No electrolytes → cannot correct hypovolemia
Not suitable for bipolar cautery (normal saline preferred there)
12.Pigtail Catheter –
Definition:
A pigtail catheter is a thin, flexible, radiopaque tube with a curled (pigtail-shaped) distal end,
used primarily for drainage of fluid or air from body cavities, especially the pleural, pericardial, or
abdominal spaces.
Why "Pigtail"?
The curled end resembles a pig's tail.
This coil prevents migration of the catheter and minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues.
Uses/Indications:
1. Pleural effusion drainage (serous, purulent, hemorrhagic)
2. Pneumothorax management
3. Pericardial effusion drainage (pericardiocentesis)
4. Abscess drainage (liver, pelvic, renal)
5. Percutaneous nephrostomy
6. Biliary drainage
Insertion Technique:
Performed under ultrasound or CT guidance
Seldinger technique often used:
1. Needle puncture of fluid cavity
2. Guidewire placement
3. Dilatation of tract
4. Catheter advanced over guidewire
5. Pigtail loop forms inside cavity
Catheter is fixed to the skin and connected to a drainage bag
Advantages:
Minimally invasive
Less painful than large-bore chest tubes
Lower risk of complications
Can be inserted at bedside or under imaging
Disadvantages:
May clog easily, especially with thick pus or blood
Slower drainage compared to large-bore tubes
Not ideal for massive hemothorax or trauma cases
Complications:
Bleeding
Infection at insertion site
Organ injury (lung, liver, bowel)
Dislodgement or blockage
Subcutaneous emphysema
Care and Monitoring:
Ensure catheter is patent and draining
Monitor fluid output and characteristics
Check for signs of infection or leakage
Daily chest X-ray (in case of pleural use) to assess resolution
13.Hudson’s Drill – Neurosurgical Instrument
Definition:
Hudson’s drill is a manual hand-operated surgical drill used primarily in neurosurgery to create
burr holes in the skull for procedures like craniotomy, evacuation of hematomas, or ventricular
access.
Components:
1. Drill body (handle) – manually operated (T-shaped)
2. Perforator bit – for initial entry through outer table of the skull
3. Dura guard/stopper – prevents penetration into the brain
4. Drill bits – detachable, of varying sizes
Uses:
Creating burr holes for:
Craniotomy
Evacuation of subdural hematoma
Intracranial pressure monitoring
Ventriculostomy or shunt placement
Emergency decompression in head trauma
Neonatal/infant skull access (with caution)
Working Principle:
The surgeon manually rotates the T-handle
The perforator pierces through the skull's outer and inner tables
A guard mechanism helps prevent injury to underlying brain tissue
Advantages:
Portable and inexpensive
Can be used without electricity (ideal in rural/emergency settings)
Simple to use and sterilize
Disadvantages:
Requires manual effort and surgical skill
Risk of plunging (sudden entry through bone causing brain injury) if guard not used properly
Slower than powered drills
Less precision in thick or sclerotic bone
Modern Alternative:
Pneumatic or electric drills with automatic clutch systems
Craniotome – powered saw used to connect burr holes
15.CUSA – Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator
Definition:
CUSA stands for Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator, a surgical instrument that uses
ultrasonic vibrations to emulsify soft tissues (especially tumors) and simultaneously aspirates
and irrigates the area. It is commonly used in neurosurgery, hepatic surgery, and tumor
debulking.
Working Principle:
The CUSA probe vibrates at ultrasonic frequencies (~23–36 kHz)
Selective tissue fragmentation: Soft tissues (like tumors) are emulsified, while tougher structures
(blood vessels, nerves, connective tissue) are preserved
Irrigation and suction work concurrently to clear the surgical field
Components:
1. Ultrasonic handpiece with a titanium tip
2. Irrigation system (delivers saline to prevent overheating)
3. Suction system (removes emulsified tissue)
4. Control console (adjusts power, suction, irrigation rates)
Uses/Applications:
Neurosurgery:
Brain tumor resection (gliomas, meningiomas)
Preserving nearby neural structures
Liver surgery:
Hepatic tumor removal
Liver resections (selective parenchymal dissection)
Pancreatic and kidney surgeries
ENT and spinal surgery (limited cases)
Advantages:
Selective tissue removal: Spares vessels and nerves
Reduces bleeding
Minimally traumatic to surrounding tissues
Improved visibility with constant suction and irrigation
Disadvantages:
Expensive equipment
Requires training and experience
Not effective on calcified or fibrous tissue
May produce heat → risk of thermal injury if misused
Contraindications/Precautions:
Avoid in areas with dense calcification
Do not use near critical heat-sensitive structures without precautions
Use appropriate settings to prevent overheating
16.Humby's Knife – Skin Grafting Instrument
Definition:
Humby’s knife is a manual surgical instrument used to harvest thin split-thickness skin grafts,
typically from the thigh, buttock, or other donor sites. It allows controlled cutting of uniform skin
layers.
Structure:
Long handle for firm grip
Adjustable roller at the distal end to control thickness of the graft
Straight blade fixed at the end
Entire instrument is usually stainless steel
Uses:
Harvesting split-thickness skin grafts (STSG) for:
Burns
Chronic ulcers
Traumatic skin loss
Reconstructive surgeries
Technique:
1. Donor area is cleaned, shaved, and lubricated.
2. Skin is stretched tight.
3. The knife is drawn across the skin with steady pressure.
4. Roller thickness is adjusted (typically 0.008–0.012 inch).
5. The graft is removed and placed in saline.
Advantages:
Simple, inexpensive, reusable
Can harvest wide grafts
Roller adjustment allows control over graft thickness
Useful where power devices (like dermatome) are not available
Disadvantages:
Requires manual skill and control
Graft may be irregular if pressure is uneven
Not suitable for very thin or very precise grafts
Time-consuming compared to powered dermatomes
17.Fibreoptic Bronchoscopy – Overview
Definition:
Fibreoptic bronchoscopy (FOB) is a minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedure
that uses a flexible bronchoscope with fiberoptic light transmission to visualize the
tracheobronchial tree.
Types of Bronchoscopes:
1. Rigid bronchoscope – for large airway intervention (OR-based)
2. Flexible fibreoptic bronchoscope – for diagnostic and most therapeutic purposes
Can be passed nasally or orally
Suitable for conscious sedation and ICU use
Components of Fibreoptic Bronchoscope:
Light source (via fibreoptic bundle)
Flexible insertion tube
Control lever (for angulation)
Working channels for suction, biopsy, irrigation
Indications:
● Diagnostic:
Evaluation of persistent cough, hemoptysis, wheeze
Suspected lung cancer or TB
Bronchial washing, brushing, and biopsy
Transbronchial lung biopsy
BAL (bronchoalveolar lavage) for infection or interstitial disease
Foreign body localization
Airway anatomy assessment (e.g., tracheomalacia, stenosis)
● Therapeutic:
Removal of foreign body
Mucus plug clearance
Laser or stent placement in airway obstruction
Electrocautery or cryotherapy for tumors
Intubation guidance in difficult airway
Preparation:
Fasting for 6–8 hours
Informed consent
Premedication: local anesthetic spray, atropine (to reduce secretions), mild sedatives
Monitoring: SpO₂, ECG, BP
Procedure:
Patient in semi-recumbent or supine position
Scope introduced via nose, mouth, or endotracheal tube
Visualization of larynx → trachea → bronchi
Suction, biopsy, or lavage performed as needed
Post-Procedure Care:
Monitor for respiratory distress, bleeding
NPO until gag reflex returns
Observe for complications
Complications:
Cough, sore throat
Hypoxia
Bronchospasm
Bleeding (especially after biopsy)
Pneumothorax (rare, mainly after transbronchial biopsy)
Infection
Contraindications:
Unstable cardiovascular or respiratory status
Severe hypoxemia
Coagulopathy (relative)
Uncooperative patient (without sedation)
18.Arthroscopy –
Definition:
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses an arthroscope (a fiberoptic
camera) to directly visualize, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint, most commonly the
knee, shoulder, ankle, elbow, hip, and wrist.
Instruments Used:
Arthroscope (camera with light source)
Saline or lactated Ringer’s solution (for joint distension)
Monitor screen
Small surgical tools (probes, scissors, shavers, cautery, etc.)
Common Indications:
● Diagnostic:
Undiagnosed chronic joint pain or swelling
Loose bodies in joint
Synovial biopsy
Intra-articular bleeding (hemarthrosis)
Suspected internal derangement
● Therapeutic:
Meniscal tear repair/removal (knee)
Ligament reconstruction (e.g., ACL)
Removal of loose fragments or cartilage
Synovectomy (e.g., in rheumatoid arthritis)
Subacromial decompression (shoulder)
Rotator cuff repair
Articular cartilage debridement
Procedure:
1. Performed under local, spinal, or general anesthesia
2. Joint is distended with fluid
3. Small incisions (portals) made near the joint
4. Arthroscope inserted through one portal
5. Instruments inserted through others for biopsy or repair
6. Joint is visualized on monitor, and pathology is treated
Advantages:
Minimally invasive
Less postoperative pain
Shorter hospital stay and faster recovery
Smaller scars and reduced blood loss
Early mobilization
Disadvantages:
Limited field of vision in tight or complex joints
Risk of incomplete diagnosis if anatomy is distorted
Requires skill and expensive equipment
Complications:
Infection
Bleeding or hemarthrosis
Thrombophlebitis
Joint stiffness or effusion
Nerve or vessel injury
Instrument breakage (rare)
Postoperative Care:
Ice packs, limb elevation
Analgesics
Physiotherapy for mobility
Wound care
Follow-up imaging or clinical assessment
19.Posterior Approach to Spine –
Definition:
The posterior approach to the spine is a surgical technique where the spine is accessed through
an incision in the back (posterior). It is the most commonly used approach for spinal
decompression, fixation, and tumor or infection management.
Indications:
Spinal decompression (e.g., laminectomy for spinal stenosis)
Disc herniation removal
Spinal instrumentation/fusion (e.g., pedicle screw fixation)
Spinal trauma (fractures, dislocations)
Spinal tumors or infections
Congenital deformities (e.g., scoliosis correction)
Surgical Steps (Generalized):
1. Anesthesia & Positioning:
General anesthesia
Patient placed in prone position
Padding for face, chest, pelvis, knees
2. Incision:
Midline posterior incision over the affected vertebral level
Incision extends through skin, subcutaneous tissue, fascia
3. Exposure:
Paraspinal muscles dissected subperiosteally from spinous processes and lamina
Exposure up to transverse processes and facet joints as needed
4. Procedure Performed:
Laminectomy/laminotomy (for decompression)
Discectomy (removal of herniated disc)
Pedicle screw placement (for stabilization)
Spinal fusion (using bone grafts or cages)
5. Closure:
Hemostasis achieved
Layered closure of muscle, fascia, subcutis, skin
Drain placed if necessary
Levels of Spine Commonly Approached Posteriorly:
Cervical spine (e.g., foraminotomy, posterior cervical fusion)
Thoracic spine (tumors, infections)
Lumbar spine (most common for disc prolapse, stenosis)
Advantages:
Excellent exposure of posterior elements
Safe and familiar approach
Allows instrumentation and fusion
Direct access to lamina, facets, spinous process
Disadvantages:
Muscle dissection may cause postoperative pain or weakness
Limited anterior visualization (e.g., vertebral bodies, anterior disc)
Longer healing time in multilevel surgeries
Complications:
Bleeding
Infection
Dural tear and CSF leak
Nerve root injury
Epidural hematoma
Chronic back pain from muscle scarring
20.Hemostatic Agents Used in Neurosurgery
Definition:
Hemostatic agents are substances applied during surgery to achieve rapid control of bleeding
from soft tissues, dura, bone, or vascular structures. In neurosurgery, these are critical for
maintaining a clear field and minimizing brain edema and hematoma formation.
Classification and Examples:
1. Mechanical Hemostats:
These act by providing a physical matrix for clot formation.
Gelfoam (absorbable gelatin sponge):
Porous, flexible sponge that absorbs blood and promotes clotting.
Often soaked with thrombin to enhance effect.
Absorbed in 4–6 weeks.
Surgicel (oxidized regenerated cellulose):
Forms an artificial clot upon contact with blood.
Bactericidal due to low pH.
Useful for diffuse venous oozing, especially from brain or muscle.
Avitene (microfibrillar collagen):
Triggers platelet aggregation.
Effective on raw surfaces or bone.
2. Active Hemostats:
These contain biologically active substances that directly promote coagulation.
Topical thrombin:
Converts fibrinogen to fibrin.
Used with gelatin sponges or alone on bleeding surfaces.
Must not be injected IV due to risk of anaphylaxis.
Fibrin sealants (fibrin glue):
Combination of fibrinogen and thrombin.
Mimics final step of coagulation cascade.
Used in dural closure and sealing CSF leaks.
3. Flowable Hemostats:
Gelatin-based matrices combined with thrombin.
Floseal, Surgiflo:
Conform to irregular bleeding surfaces.
Useful in deep or confined areas (e.g., skull base, spinal canal).
4. Bone Wax:
Used to control bleeding from cut bone edges (e.g., skull, vertebrae).
Acts as a mechanical plug, not absorbed.
Overuse can inhibit bone healing or cause inflammation.
5. Dural Sealants:
Used to reinforce dural closure and prevent CSF leaks.
Examples: DuraSeal, Tisseel (fibrin-based), Progel.
Clinical Considerations:
Choose agent based on location, type of bleeding (arterial, venous, oozing), and surgical
accessibility.
Excess use of agents like Surgicel or Gelfoam may cause mass effect or granuloma.
Avoid intravascular injection of thrombin or sealants.
21.Various Surgical Procedures for Renal Stones (Urolithiasis)
Surgical treatment of renal stones is chosen based on stone size, location, composition,
anatomy, renal function, and response to prior medical therapy.
🔹 1. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
Non-invasive procedure
Uses focused shock waves to break stones into fragments
Stones <2 cm, radiopaque, located in renal pelvis or upper ureter
Advantages:
Outpatient, painless
No incision
Disadvantages:
May require multiple sittings
Not effective for hard or large stones
🔹 2. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
Minimally invasive procedure
Access to kidney through small incision in the flank
Stones are fragmented and removed using nephroscope
Indications:
Stones >2 cm
Staghorn calculi
ESWL failure
Advantages:
High stone clearance
Can treat complex stones
Disadvantages:
Invasive, bleeding risk
General anesthesia needed
🔹 3. Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS)
Uses a flexible ureteroscope inserted via urethra → bladder → ureter → kidney
Laser lithotripsy (e.g., Holmium:YAG) used to break stone
Indications:
Stones <2 cm in upper tract
Failed ESWL or PCNL
Anticoagulated patients
Advantages:
No incision
High success in selected cases
Disadvantages:
Requires expertise and expensive equipment
🔹 4. Ureteroscopy (URS)
Semi-rigid or flexible scope passed through urethra into ureter
Used for ureteric stones (especially mid and distal)
Procedure:
Stone visualized and fragmented with laser
Fragments removed with baskets
Often stent placed post-op
Complications:
Ureteric injury, hematuria, infection
🔹 5. Open Surgery (Nephrolithotomy / Pyelolithotomy / Ureterolithotomy)
Rarely performed today
Used in complex, large staghorn calculi, anatomical abnormalities, or failed minimally invasive
approaches
Indications:
Very large or multiple stones
Abnormal kidney anatomy
Failed PCNL or RIRS
Disadvantages:
Longer recovery, higher morbidity
🔹 6. Laparoscopic Surgery
Minimally invasive alternative to open surgery
Performed for ureteric stones or when other modalities fail
22.Fluid Management in Pediatric Patients
Fluid management in children is critical due to their higher water content, immature renal
function, and increased risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. It involves calculating
maintenance, deficit, and replacement fluids based on clinical needs.
1. Maintenance Fluid Requirements:
The Holliday-Segar formula is used to estimate daily maintenance fluid needs based on body
weight:
For the first 10 kg of body weight: 100 mL/kg/day
For the next 10 kg (10–20 kg): 50 mL/kg/day
For each kg > 20 kg: 20 mL/kg/day
For hourly rate:
First 10 kg → 4 mL/kg/hr
Next 10 kg → 2 mL/kg/hr
Each additional kg → 1 mL/kg/hr
2. Types of Fluids:
Maintenance Fluids:
In neonates and infants: D10W with 0.2–0.3% NaCl + KCl (after urine output established)
In older children: D5W with 0.45% NaCl + 20 mEq/L KCl
Replacement Fluids:
For ongoing losses like vomiting, diarrhea, or gastric aspirate, replace ml for ml using
appropriate fluid (e.g., NS, Ringer lactate, or D5NS with KCl).
Resuscitation Fluids:
For shock or volume depletion: use 20 mL/kg of isotonic saline (NS or RL) as a bolus. Repeat
as needed while monitoring response.
3. Deficit Replacement:
When dehydration is present:
Estimate the degree of dehydration:
Mild: 3–5% loss
Moderate: 6–9% loss
Severe: ≥10% loss
Deficit fluid = % dehydration × body weight (kg) × 10
Administer over 24–48 hours:
Half in the first 8 hours
Remaining over next 16–24 hours
Use isotonic fluids (e.g., NS or RL) for initial replacement.
4. Electrolyte Management:
Sodium:
Maintain serum sodium within normal limits (135–145 mEq/L).
Avoid hypotonic fluids to prevent hyponatremia.
Potassium:
Do not add potassium until urine output is confirmed.
Usual dose: 20 mEq/L as KCl.
Glucose:
Infants and neonates are prone to hypoglycemia; maintenance fluids should include dextrose
(D10W or D5W).
5. Monitoring Parameters:
Urine output:
Goal: ≥1 mL/kg/hr in infants and children.
Weight changes:
Daily weight helps assess fluid balance.
Vital signs:
Monitor HR, BP, capillary refill time.
Electrolytes and glucose:
Frequent monitoring in acutely ill or fluid-receiving children.
Signs of overload:
Edema, increased respiratory rate, crackles on auscultation.
23.Lumbar Decompression Surgery –
Definition:
Lumbar decompression surgery refers to surgical procedures aimed at relieving pressure on the
spinal cord or nerve roots in the lumbar spine, often due to conditions like spinal stenosis, disc
herniation, or spondylolisthesis.
Indications:
Lumbar canal stenosis
Prolapsed intervertebral disc (PIVD)
Spondylolisthesis with nerve compression
Neurogenic claudication
Radiculopathy (sciatica) not responsive to conservative therapy
Cauda equina syndrome (emergency)
Symptoms That Improve After Surgery:
Leg pain (sciatica)
Numbness or weakness in legs
Difficulty walking or standing
Loss of bladder/bowel control (in cauda equina)
Common Types of Lumbar Decompression Procedures:
🔹 1. Laminectomy
Removal of lamina (posterior part of vertebra) to enlarge spinal canal
Most common for lumbar stenosis
🔹 2. Discectomy
Removal of herniated disc material compressing the nerve root
Often done as microdiscectomy using a small incision and microscope
🔹 3. Foraminotomy
Widening the intervertebral foramen to relieve nerve root compression
🔹 4. Laminotomy
Partial removal of lamina (more conservative than laminectomy)
🔹 5. Decompression with Instrumented Fusion
Done when there is instability (e.g., spondylolisthesis)
Combines decompression with spinal fusion using rods and screws
Surgical Procedure (Laminectomy Example):
1. Anesthesia: General
2. Position: Prone with padding
3. Incision: Midline over affected vertebral level
4. Exposure: Paraspinal muscles retracted
5. Lamina removed with rongeurs or drill
6. Ligamentum flavum resected
7. Nerve root decompressed
8. Wound closed in layers; drain may be placed
Postoperative Care:
Early mobilization
Pain control (NSAIDs, opioids)
Physiotherapy
Wound care
Monitor for neurological changes
Complications:
Dural tear with CSF leak
Infection (superficial or deep)
Nerve root injury
Bleeding, hematoma
Failed back surgery syndrome
Spinal instability (may need later fusion)
Outcome:
Good relief of leg symptoms
Less effective for chronic back pain
Better outcomes if neurological deficit is not longstanding
24.Finochietto Retractor – Thoracic Surgical Instrument
Definition:
The Finochietto retractor is a self-retaining rib spreader used primarily in thoracic surgery to
separate the ribs and provide wide exposure of the thoracic cavity, such as during thoracotomy.
Design and Structure:
Consists of two broad, curved blades mounted on a ratcheted frame
Operated by a crank handle that gradually spreads the blades
Locking mechanism holds the blades apart, keeping the surgical field open
Blades may be rigid or fenestrated
Uses:
Thoracotomy (open chest surgeries)
Lung resections (lobectomy, pneumonectomy)
Cardiac surgeries (before sternotomy became common)
Rib fracture repair
Occasionally used in upper abdominal surgeries
How It Works:
1. The retractor is inserted between two ribs after initial exposure.
2. The crank is turned, spreading the blades slowly, separating the ribs.
3. The locking system maintains the rib retraction throughout the procedure.
Advantages:
Provides stable, hands-free exposure
Allows wide visualization of thoracic organs
Durable and reusable
Disadvantages:
Can cause rib fractures or intercostal nerve injury if overextended
Postoperative pain due to rib retraction
Bulky in small thoracic cavities
Care & Sterilization:
Must be thoroughly cleaned and autoclaved
Check ratchet and crank mechanism regularly for smooth function
26.Mastoid Retractor – ENT Surgical Instrument
Definition:
A mastoid retractor is a self-retaining surgical instrument used to retract skin, soft tissue, and
periosteum during mastoidectomy and other ear surgeries, especially to expose the mastoid
bone and surrounding structures.
Design & Features:
Typically has 2–3 blades with sharp or blunt prongs
Equipped with a ratchet or locking mechanism for self-retaining function
Blades are often angled or curved to fit around the auricle and temporal bone
Common variants: Jansen mastoid retractor, Wilde retractor
Uses:
Mastoidectomy (cortical, radical, modified radical)
Tympanoplasty with mastoid exposure
Cochlear implant surgery
Posterior auricular approach in ear surgeries
Occasionally used in neck dissection or small cranial procedures
Advantages:
Provides stable, hands-free retraction
Improves visibility of the operative field
Reduces need for assistant to hold tissues
Disadvantages:
May cause tissue trauma or pressure necrosis if used forcefully or for long duration
Can slip if not properly placed or secured
27.Plaster of Paris (POP) – Medical Overview
Definition:
Plaster of Paris (POP) is a quick-setting material made by heating gypsum (calcium sulfate
dihydrate) to remove water, producing calcium sulfate hemihydrate. When mixed with water, it
forms a paste that hardens as it sets, commonly used in orthopedic and surgical applications.
Chemical Formula:
Gypsum: CaSO₄·2H₂O
POP: CaSO₄·½H₂O
> When water is added:
CaSO₄·½H₂O + 1½H₂O → CaSO₄·2H₂O (solidifies)
Medical Uses:
1. Orthopedic Casts & Splints
Immobilization of fractures and sprains
Used to maintain alignment after reduction
Applied as circular cast or slab
2. Moulds & Impressions
For orthotics and prosthetics
Making moulds in maxillofacial surgery and dentistry
3. Surgical Use
Cranial reconstruction moulds
Orthopedic surgical table supports
Used in orthopedics to make negative casts
Properties:
Quick setting: hardens in ~5–15 minutes
Exothermic reaction: releases heat while setting
Radiolucent: does not interfere with X-rays
Cheap, easy to apply, and conforming
Advantages:
Excellent mouldability
Strong when dry
Biocompatible
Easy to remove with cast saw
Disadvantages:
Heavy compared to fiberglass
Not water-resistant
Can cause burns due to exothermic reaction if applied too thick
Fragile if not properly dried
Precautions While Applying:
Use cool water to slow setting if needed
Protect skin with padding or stockinette
Avoid excessive thickness (risk of burns)
Keep elevated during drying to prevent deformation
Mark fracture site before applying cast
28.Interlocking Nail – Orthopedic Implant
Definition:
An interlocking nail is a metal rod inserted into the medullary canal of long bones (like femur,
tibia, or humerus) to stabilize fractures, especially diaphyseal (shaft) fractures. It is secured with
locking screws at both ends to prevent rotation and shortening.
Purpose:
Provides internal fixation
Maintains alignment, length, and rotation
Allows for early mobilization and weight-bearing
Common Sites of Use:
Femur (Intramedullary femoral interlocking nail)
Tibia
Humerus
Indications:
Diaphyseal fractures of long bones
Segmental fractures
Comminuted or unstable fractures
Pathological fractures
Non-union or malunion correction
Polytrauma patients (damage control orthopedics)
Contraindications:
Open physis (in children unless flexible nails used)
Severe infection (osteomyelitis)
Small or narrow intramedullary canal
Unstable patient (if definitive surgery not possible immediately)
Types:
1. Antegrade nail – inserted from the proximal end of bone
2. Retrograde nail – inserted from the distal end
3. Cannulated vs. Solid nail
4. Reamed vs. Unreamed technique
Surgical Steps (Generalized):
1. Anesthesia & positioning
2. Fracture reduction
3. Entry point created (e.g., piriformis fossa for femur)
4. Reaming (if needed) of medullary canal
5. Nail inserted over a guide wire
6. Proximal and distal locking screws placed through jigs or fluoroscopy
7. Closure and postoperative care
Advantages:
Strong fixation
Minimal soft tissue damage
Allows early mobilization
Preserves fracture hematoma (aids healing)
Can treat complex, multi-fragmentary fractures
Disadvantages:
Radiation exposure during screw placement
Technically demanding (especially distal locking)
Risk of fat embolism (in reamed procedures)
Infection, implant failure, or non-union if poorly done
Complications:
Malalignment (especially rotational)
Delayed union or non-union
Nail or screw breakage
Limb length discrepancy
Infection (osteomyelitis)
29.Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) of Fracture Neck of Femur –
Definition:
ORIF of fracture neck of femur involves surgically exposing the fracture, achieving anatomical
alignment (open reduction), and stabilizing the fracture using internal implants (like cannulated
screws or dynamic hip screw). It is commonly done in younger patients with displaced fractures
to preserve the native hip joint.
Indications:
Displaced intracapsular fracture of femoral neck in:
Young adults (<60 years)
Physiologically active patients
Failure of closed reduction
Non-union or malunion of femoral neck fracture
Pathological fractures in younger patients
Fractures in polytrauma patients needing rigid fixation
Contraindications:
Elderly patients with osteoporotic bone (prefer hemiarthroplasty/THR)
Poor surgical candidates (severe comorbidities)
Active infection around the hip
Irreducible or severely comminuted fractures (may need prosthetic replacement)
Surgical Steps:
1. Anesthesia & Positioning
Spinal or general anesthesia
Supine position on a fracture table
Affected limb is placed in traction
2. Approach
Standard: Anterolateral (Watson-Jones) or direct lateral
Incision over proximal femur and dissection to expose fracture site
3. Open Reduction
Fracture ends are aligned under direct vision
Temporary K-wire fixation may be used
4. Internal Fixation
Implant options:
Cannulated cancellous screws (3-screw configuration)
Dynamic hip screw (DHS) with derotation screw
Screws inserted under C-arm guidance to cross the fracture site and reach the femoral head
5. Closure
Wound irrigated and closed in layers
Sterile dressing applied
Implants Used:
Cannulated cancellous screws (most common for young adults)
DHS with side plate
Pauwels screw (rare)
May combine with anti-rotation screws
Postoperative Management:
Analgesia and DVT prophylaxis
Early mobilization (non-weight bearing initially)
Physiotherapy
Serial radiographs for healing
Weight bearing as per union and stability (typically after 6 weeks)
Complications:
Non-union (10–30%)
Avascular necrosis (AVN) of femoral head
Malunion
Implant failure
Deep infection
Limb shortening
Need for revision to arthroplasty
30.Self-Retaining Retractor
Definition:
A self-retaining retractor is a surgical instrument designed to hold tissues apart and maintain
exposure of the operative field without the need for manual holding. It typically uses a ratchet,
spring, or screw mechanism to keep its blades in place.
Mechanism of Action:
Composed of two or more blades or arms.
Once placed in the desired position, the locking mechanism maintains retraction.
Allows the surgeon and assistants to operate with both hands free.
Common Types and Uses:
1. Weitlaner Retractor:
W-shaped with multiple prongs.
Commonly used in orthopedic and soft tissue surgeries.
2. Gelpi Retractor:
Has two blades with single sharp prongs and a ratchet.
Used in deeper or narrow spaces, especially in spine and perineal surgery.
3. Balfour Retractor:
Large abdominal retractor with a self-locking system.
Often used in laparotomy and open abdominal procedures.
4. Bookwalter Retractor:
Table-mounted retractor with interchangeable blades.
Used in major abdominal, pelvic, and vascular surgeries.
5. O’Sullivan-O’Connor Retractor:
Used in gynecological procedures like abdominal hysterectomy.
Circular frame with multiple blades.
Advantages:
Provides a stable surgical field.
Reduces need for surgical assistants.
Improves precision and operating time.
Helps in deep or minimally accessible anatomical sites.
Disadvantages:
May cause tissue pressure injury if improperly placed or overused.
Some types are bulky and may obstruct the view.
Requires proper training for safe and effective use.
31.Hip Prosthesis
Definition:
A hip prosthesis is an artificial implant used to replace the hip joint (either partially or totally)
when it is damaged due to trauma, arthritis, avascular necrosis, or other pathological conditions.
It restores joint mobility and relieves pain.
Types of Hip Prosthesis:
1. Hemiarthroplasty:
Replaces only the femoral head, not the acetabulum.
Common types:
Austin Moore Prosthesis (AMP): Used for elderly patients with good bone stock; cementless.
Thompson Prosthesis: Requires bone cement for fixation.
Indications:
Fracture neck of femur in elderly.
Non-union or avascular necrosis in poor surgical candidates.
2. Total Hip Replacement (THR):
Replaces both the femoral head and acetabular socket.
Components:
Femoral stem
Femoral head
Acetabular cup
Indications:
Osteoarthritis,
rheumatoid arthritis,
avascular necrosis
complex fractures.
Materials Used:
Metal: Cobalt-chromium, stainless steel, titanium alloys.
Polyethylene: For acetabular liners.
Ceramic: Used for low-wear articulating surfaces.
Types Based on Fixation:
1. Cemented Prosthesis:
Fixed with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement.
Often used in elderly or osteoporotic bones.
2. Uncemented Prosthesis:
Designed for bone ingrowth into porous coating.
Preferred in younger patients with good bone quality.
3. Hybrid Prosthesis:
One component cemented and the other uncemented.
Surgical Approaches:
Posterior approach: Common, good exposure, higher risk of dislocation.
Lateral approach: Less risk of dislocation, may weaken abductors.
Anterior approach: Muscle-sparing, but technically demanding.
Complications:
Dislocation
Infection
Aseptic loosening
Prosthesis wear
Thromboembolism
Periprosthetic fracture
32.Fracture – Definition, Classification, and Management
Definition:
A fracture is a break or discontinuity in the bone caused by trauma, stress, or pathology. It may
range from a small crack (hairline) to complete separation of bone segments.
Classification of Fractures:
🔹 1. Based on Skin Integrity:
Closed (simple): Skin is intact
Open (compound): Skin is breached, bone exposed; higher infection risk
🔹 2. Based on Fracture Pattern:
Transverse: Horizontal fracture line
Oblique: Diagonal fracture line
Spiral: Twisting force; common in long bones
Comminuted: Bone broken into ≥3 pieces
Segmental: Two fracture lines isolate a bone segment
Greenstick: Incomplete fracture; common in children
Impacted: One fragment driven into another
Compression: Crushed bone; common in vertebrae
🔹 3. Based on Location:
Epiphyseal
Metaphyseal
Diaphyseal
🔹 4. Based on Displacement:
Non-displaced: Fracture ends aligned
Displaced: Fracture ends misaligned
Angulated, Rotated, or Overriding
🔹 5. Based on Cause:
Traumatic fracture: Due to injury
Stress (fatigue) fracture: Repeated strain
Pathological fracture: Occurs in diseased bone (e.g., tumor, osteoporosis)
🔹 6. Pediatric Fractures:
Torus (buckle) fracture
Greenstick fracture
Plastic deformation
Salter-Harris classification (for physeal injuries)
General Principles of Management:
🔸 1. First Aid (Emergency Care):
Immobilize the limb
Control bleeding (if open)
Pain relief
Prevent shock
Refer for imaging and definitive care
🔸 2. Reduction (If needed):
Closed reduction: Manual manipulation
Open reduction: Surgical alignment
🔸 3. Immobilization:
Plaster cast / splint
Traction (skin or skeletal)
Internal fixation (screws, plates, nails)
External fixation (rods, pins outside body)
🔸 4. Rehabilitation:
Physiotherapy to regain mobility, strength, and function
Gradual weight bearing
Monitoring for union and complications
Medications:
Analgesics
Antibiotics (for open fractures)
DVT prophylaxis (in lower limb or immobilized patients)
Calcium/vitamin D in elderly
Complications of Fractures:
Early:
Hemorrhage
Nerve or vascular injury
Compartment syndrome
Fat embolism
Infection (especially in open fractures)
Late:
Delayed union, non-union, malunion
Joint stiffness or arthritis
Avascular necrosis (e.g., femoral head)
Complex regional pain syndrome
33.Tourniquet Used in Orthopedic Surgery
Definition:
A tourniquet is a device applied circumferentially around a limb to occlude blood flow. In
orthopedic surgery, it provides a bloodless surgical field, improves visibility, and reduces
operative time.
Types of Tourniquets:
1. Pneumatic Tourniquet:
Most commonly used type.
Inflatable cuff connected to a pressure-regulated pump.
Allows precise control of pressure and inflation time.
2. Esmarch Bandage (Rubber Tourniquet):
A rubber bandage used to exsanguinate the limb before being clamped proximally.
Now rarely used due to risk of complications.
3. Silicone Ring Tourniquet (SRT):
Single-use sterile device.
Ideal for small or distal limb surgeries.
Applies uniform pressure and easy to apply.
Indications in Orthopedics:
Fracture fixation (e.g., distal radius, tibia)
Arthroscopy (e.g., knee)
Soft tissue procedures (e.g., tendon repair)
Corrective osteotomies
Application Technique:
1. Exsanguination:
Limb elevated for 2–3 minutes or wrapped with Esmarch to drain venous blood.
2. Cuff Placement:
Positioned at the proximal part of the limb (e.g., thigh or upper arm).
Soft padding applied underneath.
3. Pressure Settings:
Upper limb: ~100 mmHg above systolic BP (~250 mmHg)
Lower limb: ~100–150 mmHg above systolic BP (~300–350 mmHg)
4. Time Limits:
Ideal maximum: 90 minutes
Deflate intermittently if longer duration is needed (e.g., 10 min deflation every 90 min)
Advantages:
Clear operative field
Decreased intraoperative blood loss
Better visualization for precision
Complications:
Nerve injury: Compression neuropraxia, especially if excessive pressure or time
Muscle ischemia: Can lead to rhabdomyolysis if prolonged
Reperfusion injury: After sudden release of ischemia
Compartment syndrome (rare): Due to prolonged or improper use
Skin injuries: From poorly padded cuffs or excess pressure
Precautions:
Use lowest effective pressure
Monitor inflation time strictly
Ensure adequate padding
Confirm absence of contraindications (e.g., severe peripheral vascular disease)