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Fractures of the Fibula.One of the most common fractures of the fibula, is that which surgeons call " Pott's fracture ; " this consists of a break in the bone about two or three inches above the ankle-joint. In some cases the ligament which binds this bone to the heel is torn away. Pott's fracture is accompanied, in most cases, by a characteristic deformity; the foot is turned outward. At first sight the patient seems to have suffered a serious injury which may cripple him for life ; but it really constitutes one of the simplest and most easily managed fractures. By running the fingers along the bony prominence at the other side of the ankle, we can readily detect the rough edges of the broken bone, and can usually feel a grating sensation when we press the thumbs upon the two fragments. In some cases the inner bony prominence of the ankle - the tip of the tibia - is 'also broken off; in this case the foot is usually turned inward. This constitutes a more serious injury than a simple fracture of the fibula alone. Treatment. - When the fibula only is fractured, the treatment is quite simple and easily carried out. The tibia supports the leg and maintains its length, so that the only object of treatment is to straighten the limb by pulling the foot inward to its natural position, and to keep the leg quiet in this position. The setting of the bone is. accomplished by simply drawing the foot downward to its proper position, when the fragments fall into place. To hold the leg in this position, several dressings are employed. The simplest is made by rolling up a blanket from either end, so that two rolls joined in the middle are formed. The leg is then placed in the space between these two rolls, a bunch of cotton being put under the ankle so as to keep the foot raised to the proper level. Two strips of cloth or pieces of clothes-line are then tied around the blanket so as to press firmly upon the limb. The injured member, encased in a blanket, is then rested upon a pillow, Care should be taken that the leg preserves its proper position, that is that the foot is not allowed to fall outward ; other than this, no precautions are required. The bone is healed in about four weeks, though the patient should be very careful in using the limb for two or three weeks longer. The fibula is sometimes broken at its upper part near the knee, but as this rarely happens except in connection with a fracture of the tibia also, directions for treatment will be given in discussing this fracture. But first, if you want to come back to this web site again, just add it to your bookmarks or favorites now! Then you'll find it easy! Also, please consider sharing our helpful website with your online friends.
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