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• Enhances recovery outcomes by providing structured patient education and post-care
guidance.
• Supports efficiency in orthopedic care by assisting surgeons, reducing procedural time,
and improving workflow in both clinical and surgical settings.

By mastering these responsibilities, orthopaedic technologists become invaluable members of the
healthcare team, ensuring that patients receive high-quality, evidence-based fracture care while
promoting faster and safer recovery.

Responsibilities Include:

• Assisting in Fracture Reduction: Supporting the physician during closed reduction
procedures.
• Application of Immobilization Devices: Properly applying and maintaining casts,
splints, and braces.
• Patient Education: Instructing patients on cast care, mobility precautions, and signs of
complications.
• Post-Treatment Monitoring: Assessing for swelling, skin breakdown, or improper cast
fit.
• Surgical Assistance: Preparing instruments and assisting in fracture fixation surgeries.

Common Fracture Complications and Management

While most fractures heal without issue, complications can arise that require prompt recognition
and intervention.

Acute Complications

• Compartment Syndrome: Increased pressure within a muscle compartment causing
tissue ischemia; requires emergency fasciotomy.
• Neurovascular Injury: Damage to nerves or blood vessels leading to sensory or motor
deficits.
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Blood clot formation due to immobility; managed with
anticoagulation therapy.

Delayed Complications

• Malunion: Improper bone healing leading to deformity or functional impairment.
• Nonunion: Failure of bone healing, often requiring surgical intervention.
• Infection: More common in open fractures, necessitating antibiotic therapy and possible
debridement.
• Avascular Necrosis: Loss of blood supply leading to bone death, particularly in fractures
involving the femoral head.