Background

Condition Lookup

Speciality:

Trauma and Injuries

Number of Conditions: 115

Pulmonary Contusion

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Thoracic (Chest) Injuries

Sub-category: Blunt Chest Trauma

Symptoms:
chest pain; shortness of breath (dyspnea); coughing up blood (hemoptysis); low oxygen levels (hypoxemia); cyanosis; rapid breathing (tachypnea)

Root Cause:
Bruising or bleeding within the lung tissue caused by blunt trauma, resulting in reduced oxygen exchange and ventilation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Chest X-rays, CT scans, and blood gas analysis to assess oxygen levels and severity. Physical examination may reveal crackles or diminished breath sounds.

Treatment:
Supportive care with oxygen therapy, pain control, and mechanical ventilation in severe cases. Avoiding excessive IV fluids is critical to prevent worsening pulmonary edema.

Medications:
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen . Bronchodilators may be used to improve airway function.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in up to 30-75% of patients with significant blunt chest trauma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-energy impact injuries (e.g., car accidents, falls), anticoagulant use (increased bleeding risk).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Mild contusions often resolve within a few days, but severe cases can result in long-term lung dysfunction or respiratory failure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pneumonia, and secondary lung infections.

Compartment Syndrome

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Soft Tissue Injuries

Sub-category: Acute and Chronic Syndromes

Symptoms:
intense pain, especially with movement; swelling; tightness or hardness of the affected area; numbness or tingling; weakness or paralysis

Root Cause:
Increased pressure within a muscle compartment due to trauma, bleeding, or swelling, leading to compromised blood flow and tissue damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical symptoms assessment; measurement of compartment pressure using a needle and pressure monitor; imaging studies like MRI or CT may assist in identifying underlying causes.

Treatment:
Immediate surgical intervention (fasciotomy) to relieve pressure; rest and physical therapy post-surgery to restore function.

Medications:
Pain relievers such as opioids for severe pain; anti-inflammatory medications like NSAIDs may be prescribed post-surgery for inflammation. Opioids are classified as analgesics, and NSAIDs are anti-inflammatory drugs.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but serious; often occurs in young adults and athletes following trauma or overexertion.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Fractures, crush injuries, burns, overly tight bandaging, or prolonged vigorous exercise.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable with prompt treatment; delayed treatment may lead to permanent nerve or muscle damage, requiring further surgeries or even amputation in severe cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Permanent muscle or nerve damage, chronic pain, limb deformity, or loss of limb function.

Cardiogenic shock

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Other Trauma-Related Conditions

Sub-category: Complications of Trauma

Symptoms:
low blood pressure; rapid heart rate; weak pulse; shortness of breath; cold, clammy skin; decreased urine output; confusion

Root Cause:
The heart is unable to pump sufficient blood to meet the body’s needs, usually due to severe heart damage (e.g., from a heart attack).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis includes clinical assessment, echocardiography, ECG, blood tests (e.g., cardiac enzymes), and imaging to assess heart function.

Treatment:
Treatment includes medications (inotropes, vasopressors), mechanical support devices (e.g., intra-aortic balloon pump), and, in some cases, surgical interventions to treat the underlying cause (e.g., coronary artery bypass).

Medications:
Inotropes (e.g., dobutamine , dopamine) to improve heart contractility, vasopressors (e.g., norepinephrine ) to increase blood pressure, and anticoagulants may be used to prevent blood clots.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1-2% of patients with acute myocardial infarction (heart attack).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
History of heart disease, prior heart attacks, coronary artery disease, diabetes, hypertension.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the severity of heart damage and the timeliness of treatment. Without prompt intervention, cardiogenic shock can be fatal.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Organ failure, arrhythmias, multi-organ dysfunction, and death.

Cardiac Tamponade

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Thoracic (Chest) Injuries

Sub-category: Penetrating Chest Trauma

Symptoms:
chest pain; shortness of breath; hypotension; tachycardia (rapid heart rate); jugular venous distention; pulsus paradoxus (abnormally large drop in blood pressure during inhalation); muffled heart sounds

Root Cause:
Cardiac tamponade occurs when fluid, blood, or air accumulates in the pericardial sac (the membrane surrounding the heart), leading to increased pressure on the heart and restricting its ability to pump blood effectively.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through clinical examination, including the characteristic signs of jugular venous distention, hypotension, and muffled heart sounds. Imaging, such as echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart), is used to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment:
Immediate treatment involves pericardiocentesis (removal of fluid from the pericardium using a needle) to relieve the pressure. In some cases, surgery may be required to repair the underlying cause of the tamponade.

Medications:
Medications may include vasopressors to maintain blood pressure, analgesics for pain relief, and sedatives to reduce anxiety.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Cardiac tamponade occurs in approximately 2-4% of trauma patients, particularly those with blunt or penetrating chest trauma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma (especially penetrating injuries like stab wounds or gunshot wounds), heart surgery, cancer, or infections (e.g., pericarditis).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With rapid intervention, the prognosis is generally good, but delayed treatment can lead to death from circulatory collapse.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include cardiac arrest, shock, or persistent heart failure if untreated.

Tension Pneumothorax

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Thoracic (Chest) Injuries

Sub-category: Penetrating Chest Trauma

Symptoms:
severe chest pain; severe shortness of breath; distended neck veins; hypotension (low blood pressure); tracheal deviation (shift of the trachea to one side); cyanosis; rapid heart rate

Root Cause:
Tension pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space and cannot escape, leading to increased pressure in the chest cavity, which causes the lung to collapse further and compresses the heart and large blood vessels. This is a life-threatening condition often resulting from trauma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation and imaging, such as chest X-ray or ultrasound, which show the shift in mediastinal structures and the collapsed lung. In emergency settings, clinical signs may prompt immediate intervention even before imaging.

Treatment:
Immediate needle decompression is performed, usually with a large-bore needle inserted into the second intercostal space (in the midclavicular line) to relieve pressure. Once stabilized, a chest tube (thoracostomy) is inserted for ongoing air evacuation.

Medications:
Pain relief is typically provided through analgesics such as acetaminophen or opioids. Sedatives may be given for anxiety, especially in cases of severe distress.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Tension pneumothorax is less common but more dangerous, occurring in approximately 1-2% of all trauma patients and up to 10% of patients with blunt trauma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma (particularly penetrating chest injuries), mechanical ventilation (increased pressure), or spontaneous pneumothorax.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis is good if treated promptly, but without immediate intervention, tension pneumothorax can lead to death from cardiac arrest due to compression of the heart and great vessels.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include cardiac arrest, severe hypoxia, shock, or permanent lung damage if not treated promptly.

Hemothorax

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Thoracic (Chest) Injuries

Sub-category: Penetrating Chest Trauma

Symptoms:
chest pain; difficulty breathing; rapid heart rate; low blood pressure; pale or clammy skin; coughing up blood; decreased breath sounds on one side

Root Cause:
Hemothorax occurs when blood accumulates in the pleural space (the area between the lung and the chest wall), usually due to trauma (e.g., stab wound or rib fractures) or rupture of blood vessels within the chest.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically confirmed through imaging, such as a chest X-ray or CT scan, showing blood in the pleural space. In some cases, a thoracentesis (needle insertion) may be performed to analyze the pleural fluid.

Treatment:
Treatment involves draining the blood through a chest tube (thoracostomy) to prevent further complications like lung compression. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to stop the bleeding and repair damaged structures.

Medications:
Pain management with analgesics like acetaminophen , NSAIDs, or opioids for more severe pain. In cases where bleeding is ongoing, clotting factors or blood transfusions may be required.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Hemothorax is a common consequence of trauma, particularly in motor vehicle accidents, with an estimated incidence of 20-30% in trauma patients with chest injuries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma (especially blunt or penetrating chest trauma), fractures of the ribs or sternum, high-impact accidents (e.g., motor vehicle crashes), or complications from anticoagulant medications.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, the prognosis for hemothorax is generally good. However, delayed treatment or significant blood loss can lead to complications such as shock, infection, or impaired lung function.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Possible complications include infection (empyema), lung collapse, and difficulty in managing significant blood loss or shock. Chronic pleural effusion may occur if the blood does not fully resolve.

Hip fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Geriatric Trauma

Sub-category: Common Geriatric Injuries

Symptoms:
severe hip pain; inability to move or put weight on the leg; swelling or bruising around the hip; shortened and externally rotated leg

Root Cause:
Hip fractures often occur when the bone becomes weakened, typically due to osteoporosis, and is unable to withstand even minor trauma or fall. It can also be caused by falls, particularly in elderly patients.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is primarily through physical examination and confirmed by imaging studies, particularly X-rays. CT scans or MRIs may be used in more complex cases or when X-rays are inconclusive.

Treatment:
Treatment typically involves surgical intervention, such as a hip replacement (total or partial) or internal fixation using screws or plates. In some cases, non-surgical management with limited weight-bearing may be possible for certain fractures.

Medications:
Pain management is critical in the treatment of hip fractures. Common medications prescribed include opioids (e.g., morphine or oxycodone ) for acute pain relief, NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen or naproxen ) for inflammation and pain relief, and sometimes calcium and vitamin D supplements to support bone health. Opioids are classified as narcotic analgesics, while NSAIDs are classified as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Hip fractures are common in older adults, with women being more affected than men. It is estimated that about 1.6 million hip fractures occur worldwide annually, and the incidence is rising with the aging population.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include advanced age, osteoporosis, previous fractures, low bone density, poor balance, physical inactivity, and certain medications (like corticosteroids). A history of falls, gait abnormalities, and environmental hazards (e.g., slippery floors) are also significant risk factors.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment, most patients can regain some degree of mobility, though recovery may take time. However, the risk of complications such as infections, blood clots, or further fractures is significant, especially in elderly individuals.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Common complications include infections (such as surgical site infections), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, avascular necrosis (loss of blood supply to the hip), and delayed or non-union of the fracture. Long-term, individuals may experience chronic pain, decreased mobility, or require long-term care.

Caused by non-penetrating forces (e.g., motor vehicle accidents, falls, assaults)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: General Trauma Classifications

Sub-category: Blunt Trauma

Symptoms:
pain at the injury site; swelling and bruising; difficulty moving the affected body part; numbness or tingling (if nerve damage is involved); reduced range of motion; tenderness to touch; in severe cases, difficulty breathing (if the chest or lungs are affected)

Root Cause:
Physical force (such as from a motor vehicle accident, fall, or assault) impacts the body, causing damage to soft tissues, bones, or internal organs. The trauma results from sudden deceleration, compression, or shear forces.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination

Treatment:
Rest and immobilization for minor injuries like sprains, strains, and bruises. Pain management with ice packs, over-the-counter painkillers, and sometimes stronger medications for severe pain. Surgery may be required for fractures, internal bleeding, or organ damage. Physical therapy to regain movement and strength following healing.

Medications:
Pain relievers - Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for mild to moderate pain. Opioids - Prescribed for severe pain, but they are closely monitored due to addiction risk (e.g., hydrocodone , oxycodone ). Muscle relaxants - Such as cyclobenzaprine to treat muscle spasms. Antibiotics - If there is a risk of infection (e.g., in open fractures or internal injuries).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Non-penetrating blunt trauma is common and represents a significant portion of emergency room visits. It’s more frequent in high-risk populations like drivers, athletes, and individuals with a history of falls.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Involvement in high-risk activities (e.g., motor vehicle accidents, contact sports, high falls). Age (older adults have a higher risk of falls and fractures). Alcohol or drug use (increases risk of falls or aggressive behavior leading to assault). Lack of protective equipment (e.g., seatbelts, helmets).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good for minor injuries with appropriate treatment. Severe injuries (like broken bones, internal injuries, or head trauma) may have long-term effects, requiring ongoing care and rehabilitation. Full recovery is possible for most injuries, though severe cases may result in permanent disability or chronic pain.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hemorrhage or internal bleeding. Infection (especially in open fractures or wounds). Nerve damage, leading to loss of sensation or mobility. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in cases involving assault or severe accidents. Long-term pain or stiffness from fractures or ligament damage.

Caused by objects piercing the body (e.g., gunshots, stabbings)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: General Trauma Classifications

Sub-category: Penetrating Trauma

Symptoms:
severe pain at the site of injury; bleeding (may be profuse); swelling or bruising around the wound; difficulty breathing (in cases of chest injury); loss of function or sensation in the affected area; shock (in severe cases)

Root Cause:
The body is injured by an external object that penetrates the skin and underlying tissues, potentially damaging organs, blood vessels, and nerves.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is primarily based on the patient's history, physical examination, and imaging studies (X-ray, CT scan, or MRI) to assess the extent of internal damage and to locate any foreign objects.

Treatment:
Immediate first aid (control bleeding, prevent shock). Surgical intervention to repair internal injuries and remove foreign objects if necessary. Wound care (cleaning and dressing the wound to prevent infection). Pain management.

Medications:
Analgesics (Pain relievers) - Medications like ibuprofen (NSAID) or acetaminophen (non-opioid) for pain relief. Antibiotics - Broad-spectrum antibiotics (e.g., ceftriaxone , amoxicillin-clavulanate) are commonly prescribed to prevent or treat infection, especially in cases of high risk (e.g., dirty wounds). Tetanus Vaccine - If the wound is caused by a contaminated object, a tetanus shot (e.g., tetanus toxoid) may be administered to prevent infection.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Penetrating trauma is relatively rare compared to other forms of trauma but can be significant in certain areas or populations with higher rates of violence or accidental injuries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Occupations involving high-risk tools or machinery. Violent crime (e.g., gunshots, stabbings). Accidents (e.g., car accidents, sharp objects). Substance abuse (which can contribute to violence). Lack of safety measures (e.g., improper use of knives, tools).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the severity and location of the injury. Minor injuries may heal with little intervention, while severe injuries can lead to long-term disability or death if not treated promptly and effectively. Prompt medical intervention can significantly improve outcomes, especially if internal bleeding and infections are managed early.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection (e.g., wound infection, sepsis). Hemorrhage (significant blood loss, which may require transfusion). Organ damage (damage to vital organs like the lungs, heart, liver, or intestines). Nerve damage (resulting in permanent loss of function). Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to the traumatic nature of the injury. Long-term disability (especially with severe injuries).

Caused by explosions (e.g., pressure wave, shrapnel)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: General Trauma Classifications

Sub-category: Blast Injuries

Symptoms:
blunt force trauma; penetrating wounds; hearing loss; burns; internal organ damage; psychological trauma; concussion; amputations

Root Cause:
Exposure to explosive devices causes a rapid release of energy, leading to shock waves, flying debris, and burns that cause damage to tissues and organs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis typically involves physical examination, imaging (X-rays, CT scans), and assessment of external and internal injuries. In some cases, blast injury-specific biomarkers may be used. Psychological evaluation is also crucial.

Treatment:
Treatment involves stabilization of the patient's vital signs, wound care, surgical intervention for internal injuries or amputations, and addressing any burns. Rehabilitation and psychological support are critical for recovery.

Medications:
Medications may include pain relievers (e.g., opioid analgesics such as morphine for severe pain, and NSAIDs for inflammation), antibiotics for infection prevention, and anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., corticosteroids) for controlling swelling. Medications for psychological support (e.g., SSRIs for PTSD or anxiety, and benzodiazepines for acute anxiety) may also be prescribed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
The prevalence of blast injuries varies depending on the region, with higher rates in war zones and areas affected by terrorism or military conflicts. Blast injuries are common in military personnel, emergency responders, and civilians in conflict areas.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to military combat, terrorist attacks, industrial accidents involving explosives, or proximity to explosive devices during natural disasters or civil unrest.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the severity of the injuries, including organ damage and psychological trauma. Many survivors experience long-term disabilities, including loss of limb function, chronic pain, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Possible complications include infection, permanent disability (e.g., amputations, hearing loss, vision loss), psychological disorders (e.g., PTSD, depression), and chronic pain syndromes. Severe blast injuries can also lead to multiple organ failure and death.

Burns

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: General Trauma Classifications

Sub-category: Thermal, Chemical, and Electrical Trauma

Symptoms:
pain; redness; blistering; swelling; skin discoloration; numbness (in severe cases)

Root Cause:
Tissue damage caused by heat.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination of the burn or injury site. Imaging (in severe cases, to assess internal injuries or burns to deeper tissues).

Treatment:
Cool the burn area with running cold water, pain management, topical ointments, and bandaging; in severe cases, skin grafting, and surgery may be necessary.

Medications:
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen (analgesic) or ibuprofen (NSAID). Topical antibiotics like silver sulfadiazine (antibacterial) for burn wounds. Tetanus prophylaxis if needed (vaccine or immunoglobulin). Sedatives (e.g., lorazepam , for anxiety or agitation after trauma).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, with over 500,000 burn injuries requiring medical attention each year in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to fire, hot liquids, chemicals, or electrical sources, lack of protective gear.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Full recovery is possible with proper care, but severe burns may lead to long-term complications, including scarring, infection, and disability.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, sepsis, scarring, contractures, respiratory problems (in cases of smoke inhalation).

Chemical exposures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: General Trauma Classifications

Sub-category: Thermal, Chemical, and Electrical Trauma

Symptoms:
skin irritation; redness; burns; respiratory distress; eye irritation; chemical taste in mouth

Root Cause:
Tissue damage due to toxic substances or hazardous chemicals interacting with the skin, eyes, or respiratory system

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Patient history (including exposure to chemicals).

Treatment:
Rinse the affected area with water immediately, remove contaminated clothing, neutralize chemical agents (if applicable), and treat symptoms (respiratory support, decontamination).

Medications:
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen (analgesic) or ibuprofen (NSAID). Tetanus prophylaxis if needed (vaccine or immunoglobulin). Sedatives (e.g., lorazepam , for anxiety or agitation after trauma).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 2 million chemical exposures occur annually in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Occupational exposure, lack of safety equipment, improper handling of chemicals.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chemical exposures

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chemical exposures

Electrical injuries

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: General Trauma Classifications

Sub-category: Thermal, Chemical, and Electrical Trauma

Symptoms:
burns; muscle contractions; tingling or numbness; cardiac arrhythmias; difficulty breathing

Root Cause:
Tissue damage and potential systemic effects from the flow of electric current through the body.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination of the burn or injury site. Patient history (including exposure to chemicals or electricity). Blood tests for electrolyte imbalances (especially for electrical injuries). Imaging (in severe cases, to assess internal injuries or burns to deeper tissues).

Treatment:
Treat with CPR if necessary, monitor for cardiac arrhythmias, manage pain, and use wound care for burns.

Medications:
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen (analgesic) or ibuprofen (NSAID). Tetanus prophylaxis if needed (vaccine or immunoglobulin). Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin , for seizure management in severe electrical injuries). Sedatives (e.g., lorazepam , for anxiety or agitation after trauma).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Around 30,000 electrical injuries per year in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Working with electrical equipment, exposure to power lines, inadequate safety precautions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; mild injuries may recover fully, but severe electrical injuries can cause long-term health issues (e.g., cardiac problems, nerve damage).

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiac arrhythmias, neurological damage, muscle weakness, kidney failure (from muscle injury), and respiratory complications.

Concussion (Mild Traumatic Brain Injury)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Head and Neck Injuries

Sub-category: Head Injuries

Symptoms:
headache; dizziness or balance problems; nausea and vomiting; sensitivity to light or noise; difficulty concentrating or memory problems; fatigue; sleep disturbances (sleeping more or less than usual); irritability or mood changes

Root Cause:
A concussion is a mild form of traumatic brain injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head, resulting in temporary disruption of brain function. This leads to altered brain activity but usually without structural damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on symptoms and history of head injury. A neurological exam and cognitive testing may be used. In some cases, CT or MRI scans may be used to rule out more serious brain injuries.

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on rest and gradual return to normal activity. Cognitive and physical rest is recommended in the first 24-48 hours, followed by a gradual increase in activity. It is important to avoid returning to sports or activities that may lead to further injury during the recovery period.

Medications:
Medications are typically used to manage symptoms, such as - Pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol ) for headaches. (Class

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Concussions are common, especially in sports and high-risk activities. It is estimated that there are about 3 million concussions in the U.S. each year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Participation in contact sports (e.g., football, hockey), history of prior concussions, age (children and adolescents are more vulnerable), lack of protective equipment.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most people recover fully within a few weeks. However, some may experience persistent symptoms (post-concussion syndrome) that last for months.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
In rare cases, concussions can lead to long-term complications, such as post-concussion syndrome (persistent symptoms), second-impact syndrome (a potentially fatal condition where the brain swells after a second concussion before the first has healed), or chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), which can result from repeated concussions.

Contusion (Brain Bruising)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Head and Neck Injuries

Sub-category: Head Injuries

Symptoms:
loss of consciousness (can be brief); confusion or disorientation; headaches; nausea or vomiting; memory loss; slurred speech; weakness or numbness in limbs; seizures (in severe cases)

Root Cause:
A brain contusion occurs when the brain is bruised, typically due to a direct blow to the head. This leads to bleeding and swelling in the brain tissue, which can cause neurological impairment.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is confirmed via imaging studies like CT or MRI scans, which can show the location and extent of the bruising.

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on monitoring for any worsening symptoms. Severe cases may require surgery to relieve pressure on the brain. In less severe cases, bed rest, pain management, and neurological monitoring are sufficient.

Medications:
Pain relief is usually given, including - Analgesics like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (Class

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Brain contusions are less common than concussions but occur frequently in serious trauma, such as car accidents, falls, or violent impact injuries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact sports, motor vehicle accidents, falls, physical assault, or any activity that poses a risk of head injury.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the size and location of the contusion. Smaller contusions may resolve without long-term effects, while large or deep bruises can lead to permanent neurological impairment or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hematoma formation (blood clot), increased intracranial pressure, seizures, permanent cognitive or motor dysfunction, coma, or death in severe cases.

Epidural hematoma

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Head and Neck Injuries

Sub-category: Traumatic intracranial hemorrhage

Symptoms:
loss of consciousness followed by a period of lucidity; severe headache; nausea and vomiting; seizures; focal neurological deficits (e.g., weakness, numbness); increased intracranial pressure (icp), causing confusion or stupor

Root Cause:
Bleeding between the dura mater and the skull, often caused by trauma that ruptures an arterial vessel (commonly the middle meningeal artery).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
CT scan of the head is the diagnostic test of choice, revealing a lens-shaped mass outside the brain.

Treatment:
Surgical intervention to evacuate the hematoma (craniotomy or burr hole drainage) if there is significant mass effect or neurological deterioration. Monitoring in the ICU for signs of worsening intracranial pressure (ICP).

Medications:
Analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen , opioids) for pain relief. Mannitol (osmotic diuretic) to reduce intracranial pressure. Anticonvulsants (e.g., levetiracetam ) to prevent seizures. Sedatives and analgesics (e.g., midazolam , morphine ) for comfort in severe cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively rare, but represents 1-3% of all traumatic brain injuries (TBI). More common in young adults due to higher incidence of head trauma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Head trauma, especially involving high-energy impacts (e.g., motor vehicle accidents, falls). Use of anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs. Skull fractures, particularly temporal bone fractures.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With early diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis is generally good, though outcomes depend on the size of the hematoma and the timeliness of surgical intervention. Delayed treatment can result in neurological deficits or death due to brain herniation.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Brain herniation (due to increased ICP). Neurological deficits, including paralysis or cognitive impairment. Seizures. Infection at the surgical site or meningitis if untreated.

Subdural hematoma

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Head and Neck Injuries

Sub-category: Traumatic intracranial hemorrhage

Symptoms:
headache; drowsiness or confusion; slurred speech; hemiparesis (weakness on one side); seizures; nausea and vomiting

Root Cause:
Bleeding between the dura mater and the arachnoid mater, often due to a tear in the bridging veins caused by trauma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
CT scan of the head, showing a crescent-shaped hemorrhage that crosses sutures.

Treatment:
Surgical drainage (craniotomy or burr hole) for larger hematomas or if symptoms worsen. Observation in mild cases without significant mass effect.

Medications:
Pain relief with acetaminophen or opioids. Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin or levetiracetam ) to prevent seizures. Mannitol to reduce ICP if necessary.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
More common than epidural hematomas and seen in 10-20% of severe TBIs.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age (more fragile bridging veins). Use of anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs. Alcoholism (increased likelihood of falls and liver dysfunction).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on hematoma size, severity, and timeliness of surgical intervention. Elderly patients have a poorer prognosis due to slower recovery and increased comorbidities.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Brain herniation. Long-term neurological impairment. Post-traumatic epilepsy.

Subarachnoid hemorrhage

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Head and Neck Injuries

Sub-category: Traumatic intracranial hemorrhage

Symptoms:
sudden, severe headache ("thunderclap headache"); nausea and vomiting; neck stiffness; photophobia; loss of consciousness or altered mental state

Root Cause:
Bleeding in the subarachnoid space, usually from a ruptured aneurysm or trauma causing blood to leak into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
CT scan of the head, which may show blood in the subarachnoid space. If CT is negative, lumbar puncture may reveal blood in the CSF.

Treatment:
Emergency neurosurgical intervention, including clipping or coiling of the ruptured aneurysm. Supportive care, including managing blood pressure and preventing vasospasm.

Medications:
Analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen ) for pain management. Nimodipine (a calcium channel blocker) to prevent vasospasm. Anticonvulsants (e.g., levetiracetam ) if seizures occur.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in about 6-7 cases per 100,000 people annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of aneurysms. Hypertension. Smoking and alcohol use. Certain genetic conditions (e.g., polycystic kidney disease).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies based on severity, timing of intervention, and overall health of the individual. High mortality rate if untreated, but with early treatment, many individuals recover.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Vasospasm leading to delayed ischemic injury. Hydrocephalus. Seizures.

Intracerebral hemorrhage

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Head and Neck Injuries

Sub-category: Traumatic intracranial hemorrhage

Symptoms:
sudden severe headache; loss of consciousness or altered mental state; hemiplegia (paralysis on one side of the body); nausea and vomiting; speech difficulties; seizures

Root Cause:
Bleeding within the brain tissue, often due to a ruptured artery or arteriovenous malformation, commonly following trauma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
CT scan or MRI of the brain to visualize the hemorrhage.

Treatment:
Surgical intervention if the hematoma is large or causing significant pressure on the brain. Medical management of blood pressure and coagulation status. Neuroprotective strategies to manage increased intracranial pressure (ICP).

Medications:
Antihypertensives to control blood pressure (e.g., labetalol ). Anticoagulant reversal agents (e.g., vitamin K, fresh frozen plasma) if the patient is on blood thinners. Osmotic agents like mannitol for reducing ICP. Anticonvulsants (e.g., levetiracetam ) if seizures occur.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Represents about 10-15% of all strokes.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hypertension. Anticoagulant use. Alcohol abuse. Brain tumors or arteriovenous malformations.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the size and location of the hemorrhage, as well as the patient's overall health. Many individuals experience permanent neurological deficits, especially if the hemorrhage is large or in critical areas of the brain.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Brain herniation. Long-term neurological deficits, such as motor or cognitive impairments. Seizures.

Linear fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Head and Neck Injuries

Sub-category: Skull fractures

Symptoms:
localized pain or tenderness at the fracture site; swelling; possible headache; minor bleeding; bruising around the fracture site

Root Cause:
A linear fracture is a simple, non-displaced break in the skull bone, usually caused by blunt force trauma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically confirmed with a physical examination and imaging techniques, such as X-rays or CT scans, to assess the location and extent of the fracture.

Treatment:
Treatment often involves observation for complications, pain management, and ensuring the fracture does not cause further injury to the brain or blood vessels. In most cases, no surgical intervention is required.

Medications:
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol ) or ibuprofen (Advil), which are classified as analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications, may be prescribed for pain and swelling management.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Linear skull fractures are common in head trauma incidents, especially in motor vehicle accidents, falls, or sports injuries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include head trauma, especially in children and the elderly, high-impact sports participation, and accidents.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis is generally good if there is no underlying brain injury or complications. Most patients recover fully with appropriate treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include infection, bleeding, or brain injury, especially if the fracture is near critical areas like the sinuses or blood vessels.

Depressed skull fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Head and Neck Injuries

Sub-category: Skull fractures

Symptoms:
visible depression in the skull; localized pain; possible swelling or bruising; headache; nausea or vomiting; signs of neurological impairment like confusion or loss of consciousness

Root Cause:
A depressed skull fracture occurs when a portion of the skull is pushed inward, typically from a direct blow to the head. This type of fracture can lead to brain injury.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through physical examination and imaging studies, primarily CT scans or X-rays, to assess the depth of the depression and any brain involvement.

Treatment:
Treatment often requires surgery to lift the bone fragment and prevent further injury to the brain. Intracranial pressure monitoring and treatment may be necessary if there is brain damage.

Medications:
Analgesics such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen are commonly prescribed. In severe cases, corticosteroids like dexamethasone may be used to reduce swelling around the brain. These are anti-inflammatory and pain management medications.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Depressed skull fractures are less common than linear fractures but are more severe and are often associated with high-energy trauma such as falls or assaults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include high-impact head trauma, including motor vehicle accidents, physical altercations, or sports injuries.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the severity of the brain injury. With prompt treatment, patients can recover, though there may be lasting neurological effects depending on the extent of the injury.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications can include brain hemorrhage, infection, long-term neurological deficits, and seizures.

Basilar skull fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Head and Neck Injuries

Sub-category: Skull fractures

Symptoms:
raccoon eyes (bruising around the eyes); battle's sign (bruising behind the ear); bleeding from the nose, mouth, or ears; csf (cerebrospinal fluid) leakage from the ears or nose; dizziness; headache; loss of consciousness

Root Cause:
A basilar skull fracture is a break at the base of the skull, which can affect the brainstem and cranial nerves. It is often caused by high-impact trauma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging studies, such as CT scans or MRIs, as well as clinical symptoms like CSF leakage. Physical examination may show signs like raccoon eyes or Battle's sign.

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on managing the fracture and any associated brain injury. In some cases, surgery may be required to repair the skull and stop CSF leakage. Other treatments may include antibiotics to prevent infection.

Medications:
Medications like analgesics (acetaminophen or ibuprofen ) may be used for pain management. If there is infection risk (e.g., CSF leakage), antibiotics such as ceftriaxone (a broad-spectrum antibiotic) may be prescribed to prevent meningitis.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Basilar skull fractures are relatively rare but are typically associated with high-velocity impacts such as car accidents, falls from great heights, or physical assaults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include severe head trauma, particularly in motor vehicle accidents or falls.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis can vary. If brainstem injury occurs, the outcome may be poor, with potential for long-term neurological deficits or death. However, with timely intervention, many patients recover without permanent impairment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications may include infection (such as meningitis), cranial nerve damage, hearing loss, vision problems, or long-term cognitive and physical deficits.

Diffuse axonal injury (DAI)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Head and Neck Injuries

Sub-category: Head Injuries

Symptoms:
loss of consciousness; coma; memory loss; cognitive deficits; motor dysfunction; dilated pupils; severe headache

Root Cause:
Damage to the brain's white matter, leading to widespread axonal injury that disrupts communication between brain regions.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is confirmed through neuroimaging (CT scans or MRI), with MRI being more sensitive in detecting diffuse axonal injury.

Treatment:
Treatment typically focuses on stabilizing the patient, preventing secondary brain injury, and managing symptoms. Intensive care, monitoring intracranial pressure, and rehabilitation therapies may be required.

Medications:
Medications may include osmotic diuretics (e.g., mannitol ), anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin , levetiracetam ) to prevent seizures, and analgesics for pain management. These medications fall under categories of osmotic diuretics, anticonvulsants, and analgesics.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Diffuse axonal injury is a common consequence of traumatic brain injury (TBI), particularly in high-velocity impact accidents (e.g., motor vehicle accidents), with approximately 20% of severe TBIs presenting DAI features.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-velocity accidents (e.g., motor vehicle crashes, falls), contact sports, and physical trauma to the head or neck are primary risk factors.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis is often poor, with many patients experiencing long-term cognitive deficits, motor impairments, and persistent vegetative states. However, some patients may show partial recovery with appropriate rehabilitation.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include coma, persistent vegetative state, seizure disorders, cognitive and motor impairments, and even death.

Penetrating brain injury (e.g., gunshot wounds)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Head and Neck Injuries

Sub-category: Head Injuries

Symptoms:
loss of consciousness; severe headache; nausea; vomiting; neurological deficits; seizures; cognitive impairment; hemorrhage

Root Cause:
Direct injury caused by a foreign object (e.g., bullet) penetrating the skull and brain tissue, causing localized damage and potential hemorrhage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is confirmed via CT scans or MRI, and clinical assessment for neurological deficits.

Treatment:
Immediate surgical intervention may be required to remove the foreign object and control bleeding, followed by intensive care, brain stabilization, and rehabilitation. Antibacterial treatment may be administered to prevent infections.

Medications:
Antibiotics (e.g., ceftriaxone , vancomycin ) to prevent infections, analgesics (e.g., morphine for pain), and anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin ) for seizure prevention. These medications include antibiotics, analgesics, and anticonvulsants.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Penetrating brain injuries, such as those caused by gunshot wounds, are less common than blunt trauma but are frequently seen in violence-prone regions, accounting for around 10% of traumatic brain injuries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Gunshot wounds, violent crime, war zones, and industrial accidents are significant risk factors.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the severity of the injury, the area of the brain affected, and the speed of medical intervention. Recovery may vary from complete recovery to permanent disability or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection (e.g., meningitis), hemorrhagic shock, cognitive deficits, paralysis, persistent seizures, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Nasal Bone Fracture

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Facial Injuries

Sub-category: Fractures

Symptoms:
pain and swelling in the nose; bruising around the eyes; nasal bleeding; difficulty breathing through the nose; deformity or misalignment of the nose

Root Cause:
A break or crack in the nasal bone, usually caused by trauma such as a direct blow to the face.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, imaging studies (X-rays, CT scan) to assess the extent and location of the fracture.

Treatment:
Mild fractures may be treated with ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain relievers. More severe fractures may require closed reduction (manual realignment) or, in rare cases, surgical intervention.

Medications:
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs - NSAIDs) may be prescribed to manage pain and swelling.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Nasal bone fractures are one of the most common facial fractures, accounting for approximately 40-50% of all facial fractures.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-risk activities such as sports (e.g., football, boxing), motor vehicle accidents, physical altercations, and falls.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper treatment, most nasal fractures heal well, although cosmetic deformities may persist if not treated promptly.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Septal hematoma, chronic nasal congestion, nasal deformities, and breathing difficulties.

Zygomatic Arch Fracture

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Facial Injuries

Sub-category: Fractures

Symptoms:
pain and swelling over the cheek; bruising; difficulty opening the mouth; numbness around the cheek; tenderness on palpation of the cheekbone

Root Cause:
A fracture in the zygomatic arch, typically from blunt trauma like a punch or car accident.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, facial X-rays, or CT scans to confirm the fracture and check for any displacement.

Treatment:
Mild cases may be managed conservatively with pain management and rest. Severe cases may require surgical fixation of the bone.

Medications:
NSAIDs (ibuprofen ) for pain relief and inflammation. In more severe cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection if surgery is required.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Zygomatic arch fractures are relatively common in facial trauma, particularly in accidents and sports injuries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-energy trauma, contact sports, physical altercations, or motor vehicle accidents.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper treatment, good functional and cosmetic outcomes are common.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Malunion, facial asymmetry, sensory disturbances, and limited jaw movement.

Orbital Fracture (Blowout Fracture)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Facial Injuries

Sub-category: Fractures

Symptoms:
pain in or around the eye; double vision; inability to move the eye; swelling and bruising around the eye; sunken eye; numbness in the cheek or upper jaw

Root Cause:
A fracture of the bones that form the orbit, often caused by a direct blow to the eye or face.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, orbital X-rays, or CT scan to confirm the extent of the fracture and any involvement of the eye socket.

Treatment:
Conservative treatment with ice packs and pain medication for minor fractures; surgical intervention may be necessary for more significant fractures to repair the bones and avoid eye complications.

Medications:
NSAIDs or acetaminophen for pain relief. If surgery is needed, antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Orbital fractures make up around 20% of facial fractures, with blowout fractures being the most common type.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact trauma, such as in sports (boxing, soccer), vehicle accidents, or physical assaults.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most orbital fractures heal well with appropriate treatment; however, visual disturbances or long-term cosmetic issues can occur if not treated properly.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Vision problems, eye injury, enophthalmos (sunken eye), persistent double vision, and orbital infections.

Maxillary Fracture (Le Fort Fractures)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Facial Injuries

Sub-category: Fractures

Symptoms:
facial pain; swelling and bruising in the upper face; difficulty chewing or opening mouth; tooth mobility; nosebleeds; vision changes

Root Cause:
A break in the maxilla, often from severe trauma such as a car accident or fall, which can cause displacement of the facial bones.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Le Fort fractures are diagnosed through physical examination and confirmed with CT scans or X-rays to determine the extent of the fracture.

Treatment:
Surgical intervention is typically required to realign and stabilize the fractured bones, using plates and screws to hold the maxilla in place.

Medications:
Pain management with NSAIDs or opioids for severe pain. Antibiotics are often prescribed to prevent infection if surgery is performed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Le Fort fractures are rare but represent a significant portion of traumatic facial fractures.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-energy trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or falls from significant height, and violent trauma (e.g., assault).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With timely surgical intervention, most patients recover well; however, long-term complications can occur if the fracture is not properly treated.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, malocclusion (teeth misalignment), difficulty with swallowing and speaking, and scarring.

Mandibular Fracture

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Facial Injuries

Sub-category: Fractures

Symptoms:
pain in the lower jaw; difficulty opening the mouth; bruising and swelling in the jaw and chin; tooth mobility; numbness in the lower lip or chin; misalignment of teeth

Root Cause:
A break in the mandible (lower jaw), usually caused by trauma such as a punch, motor vehicle accident, or fall.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, dental X-rays, and CT scans are used to evaluate the fracture and its severity.

Treatment:
Treatment may involve conservative management with soft foods and pain relief for mild fractures. Severe fractures often require surgical repair using plates, screws, or wiring.

Medications:
Pain relief with NSAIDs or acetaminophen , and antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection following surgery.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Mandibular fractures are common, accounting for approximately 30-40% of facial fractures.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Physical trauma from assaults, motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, and falls.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most fractures heal well with appropriate treatment, though there may be temporary or permanent issues with teeth or jaw alignment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Malocclusion, infection, difficulty chewing, and facial asymmetry.

Soft tissue injuries (e.g., lacerations, contusions)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Facial Injuries

Symptoms:
pain at the injury site; swelling; bruising (ecchymosis); redness or warmth around the injury; difficulty moving the affected area (if it's a joint or muscle injury); open wounds (for lacerations); tenderness to touch

Root Cause:
Soft tissue injuries result from trauma or impact that damages skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments, or blood vessels. The injury leads to inflammation, bleeding, and damage to the tissue structures.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is generally clinical, based on the history of injury and physical examination. Imaging (such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI) may be used to rule out fractures or deeper tissue involvement.

Treatment:
Initial care involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.). Wound cleaning and suturing may be necessary for lacerations. Analgesics for pain management. For more severe injuries, physical therapy may be recommended to restore function.

Medications:
Medications commonly prescribed for soft tissue injuries include - Analgesics such as acetaminophen (Tylenol ) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) to manage pain and inflammation. These medications are classified as analgesics and NSAIDs. Topical antibiotics like neosporin for wound care, which are classified as antibiotic ointments. In more severe cases, muscle relaxants such as cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril ) may be prescribed for muscle spasms. These fall under the muscle relaxant classification.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Soft tissue injuries are very common, especially in trauma settings. They occur frequently in sports, accidents, falls, and violent incidents. Exact prevalence varies, but they account for a significant percentage of all injuries treated in emergency settings.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Participation in high-impact sports. Occupational hazards (e.g., construction work). Age (older adults are more prone to falls). Poor physical conditioning or muscle weakness. Lack of protective gear in sports or activities.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis for soft tissue injuries is generally good with appropriate treatment. Most lacerations and contusions heal within a few weeks, though recovery time may vary based on the severity of the injury. Some individuals may experience lingering pain or stiffness.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, especially if the wound is not properly cleaned or treated. Chronic pain or stiffness. Scarring or disfigurement from lacerations. Hematoma formation. Limited range of motion if the injury involves joints or muscles. In rare cases, compartment syndrome (especially after severe contusions or crush injuries).

Tooth avulsion

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Facial Injuries

Sub-category: Dental trauma

Symptoms:
complete loss of tooth from socket; bleeding from tooth socket; pain or discomfort in the mouth; swelling around the tooth socket

Root Cause:
The tooth is completely displaced from its socket due to traumatic injury, often from a fall, impact, or sports-related accidents.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on the patient's history of trauma and physical examination showing an empty socket. X-rays may be used to assess any other damage to the surrounding tissues or bone.

Treatment:
Immediate replantation of the tooth into its socket is the preferred treatment if done within 30 minutes to an hour. If replantation is not possible, preservation of the tooth in a suitable medium like milk or saline is essential for later replantation. Surgical replantation may be necessary.

Medications:
Analgesics such as ibuprofen (NSAID) or acetaminophen may be prescribed for pain relief. Antibiotics like amoxicillin or clindamycin may be prescribed if there's a risk of infection in the socket or surrounding tissues.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Tooth avulsion occurs in about 1-16% of all dental injuries, with a higher incidence in children and young adults, particularly in sports-related accidents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Engaging in contact sports, accidents or falls, not wearing mouthguards, and poor oral hygiene leading to weakened teeth.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the time elapsed before replantation. The sooner the tooth is replanted, the better the chances of it reattaching and healing successfully.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Risk of root resorption (where the tooth root breaks down), infection, ankylosis (when the tooth fuses with the bone), and potential loss of the tooth.

Tooth fracture

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Facial Injuries

Sub-category: Dental trauma

Symptoms:
pain at the site of the fracture; sharp edges of the tooth; tooth sensitivity to hot or cold; visible crack or chip in the tooth

Root Cause:
A fracture occurs when the tooth is subjected to force beyond its structural capacity, often from trauma, biting hard objects, or decay weakening the tooth.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically clinical, based on physical examination showing visible cracks, chips, or broken pieces. X-rays are often used to assess the extent of damage to the tooth and surrounding structures.

Treatment:
Treatment depends on the severity of the fracture. Minor fractures may be treated with dental bonding or veneers, while more severe fractures may require a crown, root canal, or even tooth extraction. For large fractures, dental surgery may be necessary.

Medications:
Pain relief can be provided with analgesics such as ibuprofen (NSAID) or acetaminophen . If infection is a concern, antibiotics like amoxicillin or clindamycin may be prescribed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Tooth fractures are common, especially in children and adolescents, with around 15-20% of dental injuries involving fractures. The risk increases with participation in high-risk activities like sports.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma from falls or accidents, biting hard objects, or tooth decay leading to weakened tooth structure. Lack of protective measures such as mouthguards increases the risk.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the severity of the fracture and how promptly treatment is received. Minor fractures generally have a good prognosis with appropriate restorative care.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
If not treated properly, complications may include infection, pulp necrosis (death of the tooth pulp), and permanent damage to the tooth structure.

Cervical spine fractures and dislocations

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Neck Injuries

Symptoms:
neck pain; restricted neck movement; numbness or tingling in arms; weakness in arms or legs; difficulty breathing; paralysis (in severe cases)

Root Cause:
Injury to the cervical vertebrae or intervertebral discs leading to fractures or dislocations that may damage the spinal cord.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis typically involves physical examination, imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess the fractures or dislocations.

Treatment:
Treatment may include immobilization with a cervical collar or halo device, surgery (for severe fractures or dislocations), and physical therapy to restore movement and strength.

Medications:
Analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen or NSAIDs for pain), muscle relaxants (e.g., cyclobenzaprine ), and corticosteroids (e.g., methylprednisolone ) to reduce inflammation and manage pain. These medications are classified as pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Cervical spine fractures and dislocations are relatively rare but can occur in trauma cases like motor vehicle accidents or falls, with a higher incidence in high-impact sports and elderly individuals.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact trauma (e.g., car accidents, falls), osteoporosis, advanced age, sports injuries, and a history of spinal issues.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the severity of the fracture or dislocation, and the extent of spinal cord injury. Mild cases can recover with appropriate treatment, while severe cases may result in permanent disability or paralysis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Paralysis, loss of sensation, respiratory problems, spinal cord injury, and chronic pain.

Whiplash injury

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Neck Injuries

Symptoms:
neck pain; stiffness; headaches; dizziness; fatigue; numbness in the arms; difficulty concentrating

Root Cause:
Sudden acceleration-deceleration of the neck, often due to rear-end vehicle collisions, leading to strain on muscles, ligaments, and discs in the neck.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies (X-rays, MRI, or CT scans) to rule out fractures or other structural damage.

Treatment:
Rest, ice or heat therapy, analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen), muscle relaxants (e.g., cyclobenzaprine), physical therapy, and cervical collars in some cases.

Medications:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen , for pain and inflammation; muscle relaxants like methocarbamol for muscle spasms; and analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Whiplash injury is common, with an estimated 2-3 million cases annually in the United States, mostly due to rear-end car collisions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-speed collisions, being in a rear-seated position during a crash, older age, and previous neck injuries.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most people recover within a few weeks to months, but some experience chronic pain or long-term neck problems.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic neck pain, headaches, dizziness, and, in some cases, post-concussion syndrome or nerve damage.

Laryngeal trauma

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Neck Injuries

Symptoms:
hoarseness; difficulty swallowing; neck pain; stridor (noisy breathing); dyspnea (difficulty breathing); coughing up blood

Root Cause:
Injury to the larynx (voice box), typically due to blunt trauma, compression, or penetrating injury, leading to swelling, fractures, or displacement.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, laryngoscopy, and imaging studies (CT or X-rays) to evaluate the extent of the damage to the larynx.

Treatment:
Treatment may involve airway management, surgery for laryngeal reconstruction, and voice therapy.

Medications:
Analgesics for pain management (e.g., acetaminophen ), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) to reduce swelling, and antibiotics if there's a risk of infection.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Laryngeal trauma is rare, but it can occur in motor vehicle accidents, assaults, or sports injuries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Blunt or penetrating trauma to the neck, violent impacts, or physical altercations.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the severity of the injury. Mild cases can heal with conservative treatment, but severe injuries may result in long-term complications, including vocal cord dysfunction or airway obstruction.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic hoarseness, swallowing difficulties, airway obstruction, and permanent loss of voice.

Tracheal rupture

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Neck Injuries

Symptoms:
severe respiratory distress; coughing up blood; subcutaneous emphysema (air bubbles under the skin); dyspnea; hoarseness; stridor

Root Cause:
Rupture or tear in the trachea, often caused by blunt or penetrating trauma, which disrupts the normal airway passage and can lead to life-threatening airway compromise.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is confirmed via clinical signs, imaging studies (CT or X-ray), and bronchoscopy.

Treatment:
Surgical repair of the trachea, airway management (intubation, tracheostomy if needed), and supportive care in an intensive care setting.

Medications:
Analgesics for pain (e.g., morphine ), antibiotics to prevent infection, and corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone ) to manage inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Tracheal rupture is uncommon but can be seen in high-impact trauma, particularly from car accidents or blunt force trauma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Blunt or penetrating neck trauma, such as car accidents, falls, or violent assaults.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis is generally favorable if treated promptly with surgery and appropriate airway management; however, it can be fatal without intervention.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Airway obstruction, infection, scarring, and long-term respiratory issues.

Penetrating neck injuries (e.g., knife wounds)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Neck Injuries

Symptoms:
severe bleeding; pain at the injury site; difficulty breathing; swelling; hoarseness; air bubbles in the blood

Root Cause:
Penetration of the neck by sharp objects, such as knives or other weapons, causing damage to blood vessels, nerves, and internal organs like the trachea or esophagus.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves physical examination, focusing on signs of bleeding or airway compromise, and imaging (CT scan or angiography) to assess the extent of injury.

Treatment:
Immediate airway management (intubation or tracheostomy), surgical exploration and repair, and control of bleeding.

Medications:
Pain relievers (e.g., opioids like morphine for severe pain), antibiotics to prevent infections (e.g., broad-spectrum antibiotics), and tetanus prophylaxis if necessary.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Penetrating neck injuries are less common but are seen in violent altercations, assaults, or accidents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Violence, criminal activity, and accidents involving sharp objects or weapons.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the location and severity of the injury; prompt medical intervention can result in recovery, but severe injuries may lead to long-term complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe bleeding, airway obstruction, infection, nerve damage, or death if untreated.

Complete spinal cord injury (paralysis)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Spinal and Back Injuries

Sub-category: Spinal Cord Injuries

Symptoms:
complete loss of sensation below the level of injury; complete loss of motor function below the level of injury; paralysis; loss of reflexes; inability to breathe without mechanical ventilation (if injury is high on the spine)

Root Cause:
Complete severing or damage of the spinal cord leading to the loss of communication between the brain and body below the injury site.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves a detailed physical examination, medical history, imaging tests (CT scan, MRI), and neurological assessments to determine the level and extent of injury.

Treatment:
Treatment typically involves stabilizing the spine, controlling swelling, pain management, and addressing respiratory issues. Surgery may be needed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or to stabilize the spine. Long-term treatment involves rehabilitation and physical therapy.

Medications:
Medications include corticosteroids (e.g., methylprednisolone ) to reduce inflammation and swelling, pain relievers (opioids and non-opioids), and antispasmodics (e.g., baclofen , tizanidine ) to control muscle spasticity. These medications are classified as anti-inflammatory, analgesics, and muscle relaxants.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 12,000 to 15,000 new cases per year in the United States; the global incidence is around 250,000 to 500,000 people living with spinal cord injury.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-risk activities (e.g., sports, motor vehicle accidents), falls, violence (e.g., gunshots), and conditions like osteoarthritis or osteoporosis that affect spinal integrity.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies based on injury level and severity. Complete paralysis typically results in permanent disability with no recovery of motor or sensory function below the injury site. However, there may be potential for some recovery in the first months.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications can include pressure ulcers, urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, blood clots, chronic pain, spasticity, and autonomic dysreflexia (a sudden increase in blood pressure).

Incomplete spinal cord injury

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Spinal and Back Injuries

Sub-category: Spinal Cord Injuries

Symptoms:
partial loss of motor function; partial loss of sensation; spasticity or muscle weakness; pain; numbness or tingling sensations

Root Cause:
Damage to the spinal cord where some nerve signals can still pass through, allowing for partial motor or sensory function below the level of injury.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is done through a physical exam, imaging (MRI, CT), and neurological tests to determine the extent and location of the injury and the level of function retained.

Treatment:
Initial treatment focuses on stabilizing the spine, controlling swelling, and preventing further injury. Rehabilitation includes physical therapy and occupational therapy to regain as much function as possible.

Medications:
Medications may include corticosteroids (e.g., methylprednisolone ), pain relievers (opioids, NSAIDs), muscle relaxants (e.g., baclofen , dantrolene ), and antispasmodics to control muscle stiffness. These are classified as anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and muscle relaxant medications.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Around 250,000 to 500,000 people worldwide live with spinal cord injuries, with incomplete injuries making up about 60-70% of cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Similar to complete spinal cord injury

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the level of injury and how much function is retained. Many people can regain some motor or sensory functions, and recovery can continue for several months or years after the injury.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include chronic pain, spasticity, pressure ulcers, urinary and bowel problems, respiratory issues, and depression.

Neurogenic shock

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Spinal and Back Injuries

Sub-category: Spinal Cord Injuries

Symptoms:
hypotension (low blood pressure); bradycardia (slow heart rate); warm, dry skin; dizziness; fainting; weakness or paralysis below the level of injury

Root Cause:
Neurogenic shock is caused by the disruption of autonomic nervous system control after a spinal cord injury, leading to the loss of sympathetic tone, vasodilation, and hypotension.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is clinical, with identification of symptoms like hypotension, bradycardia, and absence of sweating in areas below the injury. Blood pressure and heart rate monitoring are essential for diagnosis.

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on stabilizing blood pressure and heart rate. This may include intravenous fluids, vasopressor medications (e.g., norepinephrine), and atropine to raise blood pressure and heart rate.

Medications:
Vasopressors such as norepinephrine and phenylephrine are used to increase vascular tone and blood pressure. Atropine is used to treat bradycardia. These medications are classified as adrenergic agonists and anticholinergics.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Neurogenic shock occurs in about 30% of spinal cord injury cases, particularly those involving injuries at or above the T6 level of the spine.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include spinal cord injury, particularly at high levels (e.g., cervical or upper thoracic injuries) where autonomic regulation is disrupted.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
If treated promptly, the prognosis is generally favorable, with recovery of normal blood pressure and heart rate. However, if left untreated, neurogenic shock can be life-threatening.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include organ failure, arrhythmias, and in severe cases, death due to inadequate circulation or respiratory failure.

Cervical spine fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Spinal and Back Injuries

Sub-category: Spinal Fractures

Symptoms:
neck pain; stiffness; reduced range of motion; tingling or numbness in arms; weakness; difficulty breathing; visible deformity or swelling in the neck

Root Cause:
A break or crack in one of the cervical vertebrae due to trauma (e.g., falls, car accidents, or sports injuries).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, X-rays, CT scans, MRI to assess the location and severity of the fracture.

Treatment:
Treatment depends on the severity and may include immobilization with cervical collars, halo devices, traction, or surgical stabilization using plates, screws, or spinal fusion.

Medications:
Pain management with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen , opioids for severe pain (e.g., morphine or oxycodone ), and muscle relaxants like cyclobenzaprine to alleviate spasms. Steroids (e.g., methylprednisolone ) may be prescribed to reduce spinal cord inflammation in certain cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Cervical fractures account for approximately 20% of spinal fractures and are more common in males due to high-risk activities.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact trauma, osteoporosis, advanced age, contact sports, motor vehicle accidents, and falls from height.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper treatment, many fractures heal without complications. However, severe fractures or spinal cord involvement may lead to permanent disability or paralysis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Spinal cord injury, paralysis (quadriplegia), chronic pain, instability, nerve damage, or post-traumatic arthritis.

Thoracic spine fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Spinal and Back Injuries

Sub-category: Spinal Fractures

Symptoms:
mid-back pain; stiffness; difficulty breathing; numbness or tingling in the legs; weakness in the lower extremities; possible paralysis below the chest area

Root Cause:
A fracture in the thoracic vertebrae caused by trauma, osteoporosis, or metastatic bone disease.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, neurological assessment, X-rays, CT scans, and MRI to evaluate fracture severity and spinal cord involvement.

Treatment:
Mild fractures may require bracing and pain management, while severe cases may need spinal fusion or vertebroplasty. Rehabilitation is often necessary.

Medications:
NSAIDs for pain management (e.g., ibuprofen , naproxen ), opioids for severe pain (e.g., tramadol , morphine ), and calcium/vitamin D supplements for underlying osteoporosis. Bisphosphonates (e.g., alendronate ) may be prescribed for bone strengthening.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Thoracic fractures make up about 35% of all spinal fractures and are common in older adults and trauma patients.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact injuries (e.g., car accidents, falls), osteoporosis, metastatic cancers, and high-energy sports injuries.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies with the severity of the fracture. Simple fractures heal well with treatment, but severe injuries with spinal cord involvement may lead to paralysis or chronic pain.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Spinal cord damage, paralysis (paraplegia), chronic pain, kyphosis (hunchback), and long-term disability.

Lumbar spine fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Spinal and Back Injuries

Sub-category: Spinal Fractures

Symptoms:
lower back pain; stiffness; numbness or tingling in the legs; weakness in the lower limbs; loss of bowel or bladder control in severe cases; limited mobility

Root Cause:
A fracture in the lumbar vertebrae caused by trauma, compression (e.g., in osteoporosis), or metastatic bone disease.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, neurological evaluation, X-rays, CT scans, and MRI to assess fracture severity and nerve involvement.

Treatment:
Conservative treatments include bracing and physical therapy for minor fractures. Severe cases may require kyphoplasty, spinal fusion, or decompression surgery.

Medications:
NSAIDs for pain relief (e.g., ibuprofen , diclofenac ), opioids for severe pain (e.g., hydrocodone , morphine ), and bone-modifying agents like teriparatide or bisphosphonates for osteoporosis-related fractures.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Lumbar fractures are the most common spinal fractures, especially in older adults with osteoporosis or those experiencing high-energy trauma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Osteoporosis, trauma from falls or car accidents, repetitive stress, metastatic cancer, and physical overexertion.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most fractures heal well with conservative treatment, but severe injuries may result in chronic pain or permanent disability.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Nerve root compression, chronic pain, deformity, instability, or spinal stenosis.

Vertebral compression fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Geriatric Trauma

Sub-category: Common Geriatric Injuries

Symptoms:
sudden onset of severe back pain, especially with movement or bending; height loss over time; stooped posture; numbness or weakness in the legs (if the spinal cord is affected)

Root Cause:
Vertebral compression fractures are most commonly caused by osteoporosis, which weakens the bones, making them more susceptible to breaking under even normal strain. These fractures can also be the result of trauma or lifting heavy objects.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically made through a physical exam and confirmed by imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, which can show the extent of the bone collapse.

Treatment:
Treatment usually involves pain management (NSAIDs or opioids), rest, bracing, and physical therapy. In severe cases, vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty (procedures to stabilize the fracture using cement injection) may be performed.

Medications:
Medications often prescribed for vertebral compression fractures include opioid analgesics for severe pain (e.g., morphine ), NSAIDs for moderate pain (e.g., ibuprofen ), and bisphosphonates (e.g., alendronate ) to help treat osteoporosis and strengthen bones. Opioids are narcotic analgesics, NSAIDs are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and bisphosphonates are anti-osteoporotic medications.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Vertebral compression fractures are common, especially in older adults, and affect an estimated 700,000 people in the U.S. each year, most of whom have osteoporosis.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Major risk factors include age (especially postmenopausal women), osteoporosis, corticosteroid use, and a history of fractures. Low body weight and lack of physical activity also contribute.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the severity of the fracture and the overall health of the patient. While many individuals recover with appropriate treatment, some may experience chronic pain or permanent deformity, such as a hunchback (kyphosis).

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Possible complications include nerve compression, chronic back pain, decreased mobility, and further fractures due to continued bone weakness.

Herniated intervertebral disc

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Spinal and Back Injuries

Sub-category: Disc Disorders

Symptoms:
localized back pain; radiating pain (sciatica) down the legs; numbness or tingling in extremities; muscle weakness; difficulty with movement or coordination

Root Cause:
A tear in the outer layer of the intervertebral disc allows the inner gel-like material to protrude, compressing nearby nerves or the spinal cord.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed with clinical examination and imaging (MRI or CT).

Treatment:
Treated with physical therapy, pain management, and, in severe cases, surgical intervention like discectomy.

Medications:
NSAIDs for pain and inflammation, muscle relaxants (e.g., cyclobenzaprine ), and corticosteroid injections to reduce nerve irritation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1-2% of the population annually, most common in adults aged 30-50.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging, heavy lifting, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and smoking.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most cases resolve with conservative treatment within 6-8 weeks; surgery has a high success rate for relieving symptoms in severe cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pain, permanent nerve damage, loss of bladder or bowel control (cauda equina syndrome), and disability if left untreated.

Ligament sprains and muscle strains

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Soft Tissue Injuries

Sub-category: Ligament and Muscle Injuries

Symptoms:
pain at the injury site; swelling; bruising; reduced range of motion; muscle spasms; difficulty bearing weight

Root Cause:
Overstretching or tearing of ligaments (sprains) or muscles/tendons (strains) caused by trauma, overuse, or sudden movements.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through clinical evaluation and imaging (e.g., MRI for severe injuries).

Treatment:
Treated with rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), physical therapy, and sometimes bracing or surgical repair.

Medications:
NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen for pain and inflammation, and occasionally acetaminophen for pain relief.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common across all age groups, especially among athletes; sprains affect over 2 million people annually in the U.S. alone.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Sports participation, poor conditioning, inadequate warm-up, and previous injuries.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most sprains and strains heal completely with appropriate treatment within days to weeks; severe cases may take several months.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic instability, joint stiffness, reduced mobility, and recurrence of injury.

Rib Fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Thoracic (Chest) Injuries

Sub-category: Blunt Chest Trauma

Symptoms:
severe localized chest pain; pain worsening with deep breaths or coughing; difficulty breathing; bruising or swelling over the injury site

Root Cause:
A break or crack in one or more ribs caused by direct trauma, excessive force, or repetitive stress.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, X-rays, CT scan (if needed for more detailed imaging), and evaluation of breathing and chest wall movement.

Treatment:
Pain management (to enable proper breathing), rest, ice application, and in severe cases, surgical fixation. Breathing exercises or incentive spirometry are often prescribed to prevent lung complications.

Medications:
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen are commonly prescribed. In severe cases, opioids like oxycodone may be used for short-term pain management.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in trauma cases, accounting for approximately 10% of chest trauma injuries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Motor vehicle accidents, falls, high-impact sports, osteoporosis (weakened bones), or metastatic cancer.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most rib fractures heal within 6 weeks with conservative treatment. Severe injuries involving multiple ribs or associated lung injury may prolong recovery.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pneumothorax, hemothorax, pneumonia (due to restricted breathing), and flail chest (in cases of multiple rib fractures).

Flail Chest

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Thoracic (Chest) Injuries

Sub-category: Blunt Chest Trauma

Symptoms:
paradoxical chest wall movement (inward during inhalation and outward during exhalation); severe chest pain; difficulty breathing; cyanosis (bluish skin); tachypnea (rapid breathing)

Root Cause:
A segment of the rib cage breaks and becomes detached from the chest wall, usually caused by multiple consecutive rib fractures. This leads to impaired ventilation and inadequate oxygenation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination (identifying paradoxical movement), chest X-rays, and CT scans to assess the extent of fractures and associated lung injuries.

Treatment:
Oxygen therapy, pain management, mechanical ventilation (in severe cases), and surgical fixation (for unstable chest walls). Supportive care includes pulmonary hygiene and physiotherapy to prevent pneumonia.

Medications:
NSAIDs like ibuprofen , acetaminophen , or opioids for pain control. Muscle relaxants may also be used to reduce discomfort.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but occurs in approximately 5-8% of patients with significant blunt chest trauma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-energy trauma (motor vehicle accidents, falls from height), osteoporosis, or preexisting rib deformities.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With timely treatment, most cases have a good prognosis. Severe cases with associated complications can be life-threatening and may require prolonged hospitalization.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, pneumonia, pneumothorax, hemothorax, and long-term chest wall deformity.

Sternal Fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Thoracic (Chest) Injuries

Sub-category: Blunt Chest Trauma

Symptoms:
localized chest pain (worse with breathing or movement); swelling and bruising over the sternum; shortness of breath; crepitus (grating sensation) over the fracture site

Root Cause:
A break in the sternum caused by direct trauma, typically from motor vehicle accidents or high-impact injuries.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, chest X-rays, and CT scans to confirm the fracture and rule out associated injuries (e.g., cardiac or lung damage).

Treatment:
Pain management with NSAIDs or opioids, rest, and monitoring for complications. Severe or displaced fractures may require surgical fixation.

Medications:
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ) or acetaminophen for pain relief. Opioids like tramadol may be prescribed for more severe pain.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for approximately 5-8% of all blunt chest trauma cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Motor vehicle accidents (seatbelt injuries), falls, contact sports, or osteoporosis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most fractures heal well with conservative treatment within 6-8 weeks. Severe cases with associated injuries may have a guarded prognosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiac contusion, pneumothorax, hemothorax, and chronic chest pain.

Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Thoracic (Chest) Injuries

Sub-category: Penetrating Chest Trauma

Symptoms:
sharp chest pain; shortness of breath; decreased breath sounds on one side; cyanosis (bluish skin); rapid breathing; fatigue

Root Cause:
A pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space (the area between the lung and the chest wall), causing the lung to collapse. This can result from trauma, injury, or spontaneously due to lung disease or weakness in the lung tissue.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made via a chest X-ray or CT scan, which will show air in the pleural space and a collapsed lung.

Treatment:
Treatment varies depending on the size and severity. Small pneumothoraxes may resolve on their own, while larger ones may require chest tube insertion to remove the air and re-expand the lung. In some cases, surgery is needed.

Medications:
Pain relief with medications like acetaminophen or NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and opioids for severe pain in some cases. Medications for anxiety and stress related to difficulty breathing may also be prescribed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Pneumothorax is relatively common, particularly among young, tall men (especially in their 20s). The estimated annual incidence is about 18-28 cases per 100,000 people.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma to the chest, underlying lung conditions such as COPD or asthma, smoking, and a family history of pneumothorax.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis for pneumothorax is generally good, particularly if diagnosed early and treated properly. Recurrence is possible, especially in individuals with underlying lung disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include re-expansion pulmonary edema (fluid in the lung), infection, tension pneumothorax (a life-threatening condition), and recurrence of pneumothorax.

Great Vessel Injury (e.g., Aortic Rupture)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Thoracic (Chest) Injuries

Sub-category: Penetrating Chest Trauma

Symptoms:
severe chest or back pain; hypotension; tachycardia; loss of consciousness; pulsatile mass (in some cases)

Root Cause:
A great vessel injury, particularly an aortic rupture, occurs when the aorta or another major blood vessel in the chest is torn or ruptured, usually due to blunt trauma (e.g., motor vehicle accidents) or penetrating trauma. This can cause massive internal bleeding.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is confirmed with imaging studies such as a CT scan, MRI, or transesophageal echocardiography. A chest X-ray may show widening of the mediastinum in cases of aortic injury.

Treatment:
Immediate surgical intervention is required to repair the ruptured vessel, often involving either open surgery or endovascular repair (minimally invasive procedures using stents or grafts).

Medications:
Pain relief (analgesics such as acetaminophen or opioids), and in some cases, vasopressors or blood transfusions to manage shock and bleeding.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Great vessel injuries, including aortic ruptures, are rare but highly lethal, with an estimated incidence of 1-2% in trauma cases. Most deaths occur before hospital arrival.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma (particularly high-impact blunt trauma such as in car accidents), a history of hypertension, and atherosclerosis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the severity of the injury and the speed of intervention. Without treatment, the condition is usually fatal within minutes to hours.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include massive internal bleeding, shock, organ failure, and death if not surgically repaired in time.

Diaphragmatic rupture (from blunt or penetrating trauma)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Thoracic (Chest) Injuries

Sub-category: Diaphragmatic Injuries

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; chest pain; abdominal pain; respiratory distress; decreased breath sounds on the affected side; abdominal contents visible in the chest on imaging

Root Cause:
A tear in the diaphragm caused by blunt or penetrating trauma, allowing abdominal organs to herniate into the thoracic cavity.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, chest X-ray, CT scan, ultrasound (FAST scan), or diagnostic laparoscopy.

Treatment:
Surgical repair of the diaphragm, typically through thoracotomy or laparotomy. Emergency management may include stabilizing the patient’s airway, breathing, and circulation (ABCs).

Medications:
Pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen , opioids), antibiotics to prevent infection if there is organ herniation or contamination (e.g., broad-spectrum antibiotics like ceftriaxone or metronidazole ). These medications are supportive and adjunct to surgical treatment.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; occurs in approximately 5-7% of patients with significant blunt trauma to the chest or abdomen, and in a higher proportion of penetrating trauma cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-energy blunt trauma (e.g., motor vehicle collisions, falls from a height), penetrating injuries to the chest or abdomen, prior surgical or congenital diaphragmatic defects.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely surgical intervention. Delayed diagnosis can increase morbidity and mortality due to complications like strangulation of herniated organs or respiratory compromise.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory distress, herniation and strangulation of abdominal organs, infection, sepsis, multi-organ failure, recurrence of the rupture if not properly repaired.

Liver laceration

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Blunt Abdominal Trauma

Sub-category: Solid Organ Injuries

Symptoms:
right upper quadrant pain; abdominal tenderness; signs of internal bleeding (e.g., hypotension, tachycardia); nausea; vomiting; ecchymosis over the abdomen

Root Cause:
Traumatic damage to the liver caused by blunt force trauma, often resulting in bleeding and disruption of hepatic tissue.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST), contrast-enhanced CT scan, and laboratory tests (e.g., hemoglobin levels, liver enzymes).

Treatment:
Management depends on severity. Minor lacerations may be managed conservatively with observation and fluid resuscitation. Severe cases may require surgical intervention (e.g., laparotomy, hemostasis, or liver packing).

Medications:
Pain relief medications such as acetaminophen or opioids for severe pain. In cases of infection risk, prophylactic antibiotics like ceftriaxone (cephalosporin class) may be used.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in patients with blunt abdominal trauma; occurs in approximately 15-20% of such cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Motor vehicle collisions, falls from significant heights, sports injuries, or assaults involving blunt force to the abdomen.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable in minor cases with proper treatment; severe lacerations carry a higher risk of mortality due to hemorrhage or associated injuries.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hemorrhagic shock, bile leakage, peritonitis, abscess formation, sepsis.

Splenic rupture

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Blunt Abdominal Trauma

Sub-category: Solid Organ Injuries

Symptoms:
left upper quadrant pain; kehr's sign (referred pain to the left shoulder); abdominal distension; hypotension; tachycardia; nausea; vomiting

Root Cause:
Splenic parenchymal and capsule disruption due to blunt trauma, leading to internal bleeding and potential hemodynamic instability.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, FAST scan, contrast-enhanced CT scan of the abdomen, and monitoring of hemoglobin levels.

Treatment:
Non-operative management with close monitoring and bed rest in stable cases. Unstable cases may require splenectomy or splenic repair surgery.

Medications:
Pain management with acetaminophen or NSAIDs. Post-splenectomy patients may require prophylactic vaccines against encapsulated bacteria (e.g., pneumococcal, meningococcal, and Haemophilus influenzae).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 25-30% of blunt abdominal trauma cases, making it the most commonly injured organ.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Blunt abdominal trauma from vehicle collisions, falls, or contact sports.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good in stable cases with non-operative management; splenectomy patients have an increased lifelong risk of infections (overwhelming post-splenectomy infection, OPSI).

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hemorrhagic shock, infection, OPSI, abscess formation.

Kidney contusion/laceration

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Blunt Abdominal Trauma

Sub-category: Solid Organ Injuries

Symptoms:
flank pain; hematuria (blood in urine); ecchymosis over the flank (grey-turner sign); abdominal or back tenderness; signs of shock in severe cases

Root Cause:
Trauma to the renal parenchyma or blood vessels, often leading to bleeding, urine leakage, or vascular injury.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Urinalysis, FAST, contrast-enhanced CT scan of the abdomen, and renal ultrasound.

Treatment:
Conservative management with rest, hydration, and monitoring for minor injuries. Severe lacerations may require surgical repair or nephrectomy.

Medications:
Pain relief with acetaminophen or opioids. Prophylactic antibiotics like ciprofloxacin (fluoroquinolone class) in cases of urinary tract infection or surgery.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 10% of blunt abdominal trauma cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact trauma such as car accidents, direct blows, or falls.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable in minor cases; severe cases may lead to loss of renal function or other complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hemorrhagic shock, perinephric abscess, chronic kidney damage, hypertension.

Pancreatic injury

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Blunt Abdominal Trauma

Sub-category: Solid Organ Injuries

Symptoms:
epigastric pain; nausea; vomiting; signs of peritonitis (in severe cases); elevated serum amylase or lipase

Root Cause:
Disruption or contusion of the pancreas caused by blunt trauma, leading to leakage of pancreatic enzymes and tissue inflammation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, serum amylase and lipase levels, CT scan with contrast, and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in select cases.

Treatment:
Mild cases managed with bowel rest, hydration, and monitoring. Severe injuries may require surgical drainage, debridement, or partial pancreatectomy.

Medications:
Pain management with opioids. Antibiotics like piperacillin-tazobactam (penicillin class) for associated infections or abscesses.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, occurring in less than 5% of blunt abdominal trauma cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Blunt force trauma from vehicle collisions, bicycle handlebars, or direct abdominal impacts.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; minor injuries have good outcomes, but severe injuries can result in significant morbidity.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pancreatic fistula, abscess formation, pseudocyst, diabetes mellitus, sepsis.

Intestinal perforation

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Blunt Abdominal Trauma

Sub-category: Hollow organ injuries

Symptoms:
severe abdominal pain; fever; nausea; vomiting; abdominal distension; tenderness; guarding; rebound tenderness

Root Cause:
A tear or hole in the wall of the intestines that leads to leakage of intestinal contents into the abdominal cavity, causing peritonitis and infection.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, imaging studies like X-rays (showing free air under the diaphragm), CT scans, blood tests showing elevated white blood cells (leukocytosis), and exploratory surgery.

Treatment:
Emergency surgery (laparotomy or laparoscopy) to repair the perforation, clean the abdominal cavity, and address any infection.

Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics, such as piperacillin-tazobactam or ceftriaxone with metronidazole , are prescribed to manage infections. These are classified as antibacterial agents. Pain relievers and IV fluids may also be administered.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in cases of trauma, infections, or gastrointestinal conditions like peptic ulcers or diverticulitis. Exact prevalence varies by the underlying cause.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Abdominal trauma, gastrointestinal conditions (e.g., Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis, or cancer), infections, foreign body ingestion, and certain medications like NSAIDs.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable with prompt treatment but worsens with delays, leading to life-threatening sepsis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Peritonitis, sepsis, abscess formation, multi-organ failure, and death if untreated.

Stomach rupture

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Blunt Abdominal Trauma

Sub-category: Hollow organ injuries

Symptoms:
severe upper abdominal pain; abdominal swelling; nausea; vomiting; hematemesis (vomiting blood); hypotension; shock

Root Cause:
A breach in the stomach wall, often due to blunt trauma, increased gastric pressure, or penetrating injuries, leading to leakage of gastric contents into the abdominal cavity.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging (X-rays showing free air under the diaphragm), CT scan, upper GI endoscopy, and clinical symptoms indicative of peritonitis or shock.

Treatment:
Emergency surgical intervention to repair the rupture and clean the abdominal cavity. Postoperative care includes infection control and nutritional support.

Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics, such as ceftriaxone or meropenem , combined with metronidazole to prevent infection. These are classified as antibacterial agents. Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., pantoprazole or omeprazole ) may be prescribed to reduce stomach acid and promote healing. Pain relief medications (e.g., opioids or acetaminophen ) are also used.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but associated with significant blunt trauma (e.g., motor vehicle accidents) or extreme gastric distension (e.g., binge eating with vomiting).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Blunt abdominal trauma, excessive gastric distension, gastric ulcers, ingestion of corrosive substances, or prior gastric surgeries.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt surgical treatment, survival is high; delays increase risk of sepsis and death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Peritonitis, sepsis, hemorrhage, abscess formation, and multi-organ failure.

Retroperitoneal Hematoma

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Blunt Abdominal Trauma

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; flank pain; back pain; bruising around the flank (grey-turner's sign); hemodynamic instability (e.g., low blood pressure); nausea and vomiting; abdominal distension

Root Cause:
Blood accumulation in the retroperitoneal space due to trauma or injury to retroperitoneal structures (e.g., kidneys, adrenal glands, aorta, or major vessels). Causes may include blunt force trauma, pelvic fractures, or ruptured aneurysms.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves clinical examination and imaging studies. CT scan with contrast is the gold standard for visualizing retroperitoneal bleeding and identifying the source. Ultrasound (FAST) may provide initial clues in trauma settings. Blood tests may reveal anemia or coagulopathy.

Treatment:
Management depends on the severity and cause. Mild cases may involve monitoring and supportive care, while severe cases may require surgical intervention, such as exploratory laparotomy or angiographic embolization to control bleeding.

Medications:
Medications are supportive and may include - Blood transfusions (if anemia or severe blood loss occurs). IV fluids to maintain blood pressure. Pain relievers like acetaminophen or opioids for severe pain. Antibiotics if infection is suspected due to tissue necrosis or open injuries. Anticoagulant reversal agents (e.g., vitamin K, protamine sulfate) if bleeding is associated with anticoagulant use.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Exact prevalence is unknown but occurs most commonly in patients with blunt trauma, accounting for approximately 15% of abdominal injuries requiring imaging or intervention.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Blunt abdominal trauma; pelvic fractures; anticoagulant use; advanced age; vascular abnormalities (e.g., aneurysms); bleeding disorders; previous abdominal surgery

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the severity of bleeding and the speed of intervention. Early diagnosis and treatment result in a good prognosis, but severe cases with delayed management can lead to significant morbidity and mortality.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hemorrhagic shock; organ ischemia or failure; infection or abscess formation; compartment syndrome; death (in severe untreated cases)

Stab Wounds

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Penetrating Abdominal Trauma

Symptoms:
visible open wound; abdominal pain; bleeding; shock (rapid pulse, low blood pressure); nausea or vomiting; rigidity or guarding of abdominal muscles

Root Cause:
Penetration of the abdominal wall by a sharp object, potentially damaging internal organs, blood vessels, or causing infection.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, imaging studies such as CT scan or ultrasound, diagnostic peritoneal lavage, and exploration during surgery.

Treatment:
Initial stabilization (control bleeding, fluid resuscitation), surgical exploration to assess and repair internal injuries, wound care, and infection prevention.

Medications:
Antibiotics (e.g., cefazolin , metronidazole ) to prevent infection; analgesics (e.g., opioids like morphine for severe pain); tetanus prophylaxis if needed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in cases of violent assaults or accidents, with variations depending on geographic and social contexts.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-crime areas, carrying weapons, engaging in high-risk activities or disputes.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Dependent on the extent of the injury and timeliness of medical intervention; recovery is good if injuries are limited to superficial tissues.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hemorrhage, infection (peritonitis or abscess), organ damage (e.g., liver, spleen, bowel), shock, and death if untreated.

Gunshot Wounds

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Penetrating Abdominal Trauma

Symptoms:
visible entry and/or exit wounds; severe pain; significant bleeding; swelling or bruising; organ dysfunction (e.g., difficulty breathing if diaphragm is affected); shock symptoms (e.g., confusion, pale skin, rapid heart rate)

Root Cause:
High-velocity trauma causing tissue disruption, hemorrhage, and potential organ perforation or laceration.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, imaging (CT scans, X-rays), angiography for vascular injuries, and surgical exploration if necessary.

Treatment:
Immediate stabilization (airway management, control of bleeding, fluid resuscitation), surgery to repair organ or vascular damage, wound care, and prevention of infection.

Medications:
Antibiotics (e.g., piperacillin-tazobactam or ceftriaxone for broad-spectrum coverage), analgesics (e.g., opioids for pain management), and tetanus prophylaxis.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Gun violence and accidents are major contributors to gunshot wounds globally, with higher prevalence in regions with loose firearm regulations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Access to firearms, high-crime areas, gang involvement, or accidental firearm discharge.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the trajectory and velocity of the bullet, as well as timeliness of medical care; survival rates are higher for isolated injuries to non-vital structures.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hemorrhage, organ failure, infection (e.g., peritonitis or sepsis), nerve damage, permanent disability, and death if major vessels or organs are damaged.

Open-Book Fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Pelvic Injuries

Sub-category: Pelvic Fractures

Symptoms:
severe pelvic pain; visible deformity of the pelvis; swelling; bruising; instability of the pelvis; bleeding (internal or external)

Root Cause:
The pelvis is disrupted at the pubic symphysis, causing the pelvis to "open" like a book due to significant trauma, often resulting in ligament tears and potential vascular injury.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, X-rays, CT scans, and assessing for signs of instability or associated vascular/organ damage.

Treatment:
Emergency stabilization with a pelvic binder or external fixator, fluid resuscitation, blood transfusions, and definitive surgical repair (internal fixation).

Medications:
Pain management with opioids (e.g., morphine or hydromorphone ), anticoagulants (e.g., low-molecular-weight heparin to prevent deep vein thrombosis), and antibiotics (e.g., cefazolin for infection prophylaxis in open fractures).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; typically occurs in high-impact trauma scenarios such as motor vehicle accidents or falls from significant heights.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-energy trauma, osteoporosis, advanced age, motor vehicle collisions, or significant falls.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable depending on severity; with proper treatment, survival rates are high, though long-term complications such as chronic pain or mobility issues can occur.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hemorrhage, organ damage (e.g., bladder or urethra injury), infection, deep vein thrombosis, chronic pelvic instability, and post-traumatic arthritis.

Acetabular Fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Pelvic Injuries

Sub-category: Pelvic Fractures

Symptoms:
severe hip pain; difficulty or inability to bear weight; leg deformity or rotation; swelling and bruising around the hip or groin

Root Cause:
Fracture of the acetabulum (hip socket), typically caused by high-energy trauma such as car accidents or falls, or by lower-energy impacts in patients with weakened bones.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical assessment, X-rays, CT scans for detailed imaging, and occasionally MRI to evaluate soft tissue or cartilage damage.

Treatment:
Nonsurgical management (rest, traction, and physical therapy) for stable fractures; surgical intervention (open reduction and internal fixation) for displaced or unstable fractures.

Medications:
Pain relief with NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen or naproxen ) or opioids (e.g., oxycodone ); anticoagulants like enoxaparin to prevent blood clots; antibiotics for infection prophylaxis in open or surgical cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; occurs most often in young adults involved in high-energy trauma or in older individuals with osteoporotic bones.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact trauma, osteoporosis, advanced age, or previous pelvic injuries.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with appropriate treatment, though some patients may experience long-term issues such as arthritis or limited range of motion.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Post-traumatic arthritis, nerve injury (e.g., sciatic nerve damage), blood clots, chronic pain, and hip instability.

Urethral and Bladder Injuries

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Pelvic Injuries

Symptoms:
painful urination; blood in the urine; difficulty urinating; lower abdominal pain; swelling or bruising around the pelvic area; urinary retention

Root Cause:
Trauma to the urethra or bladder, typically caused by blunt or penetrating abdominal/pelvic trauma, including car accidents, falls, or fractures in the pelvic region.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on physical examination, imaging studies such as CT scans or MRI, and cystography (x-ray imaging with contrast) to assess the injury to the bladder and urethra.

Treatment:
Treatment may involve catheterization, surgical repair, and in some cases, bladder diversion or reconstruction. Immediate care focuses on stabilizing the patient and managing urinary retention or leakage.

Medications:
Antibiotics to prevent or treat infection (such as ceftriaxone , a third-generation cephalosporin), pain relievers (acetaminophen , opioids for severe pain), and antispasmodics (such as oxybutynin ) to manage bladder spasms. These medications fall under classifications of antibiotics, analgesics, and anticholinergics.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Urethral and bladder injuries are relatively rare but can occur in about 10-15% of pelvic fractures. Males are more commonly affected due to anatomical differences.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-risk activities such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, sports injuries, and certain surgical procedures. Men are at higher risk due to their longer urethra, and individuals with pelvic fractures are more likely to sustain these injuries.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt and appropriate treatment, most individuals recover with minimal long-term complications. However, delayed treatment can lead to chronic incontinence, erectile dysfunction, or urinary tract infections.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Long-term complications can include erectile dysfunction, chronic pain, urinary incontinence, bladder dysfunction, infections, and in severe cases, renal failure due to obstruction or infection.

Clavicle fracture

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Upper Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Shoulder Injuries

Symptoms:
pain over the clavicle; swelling; bruising; visible deformity; difficulty moving the arm; crepitus over the fracture site

Root Cause:
A break in the clavicle, typically caused by trauma such as a fall onto the shoulder, direct blow, or fall onto an outstretched hand.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, confirmed with imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans for more complex fractures.

Treatment:
Immobilization with a sling or figure-of-eight brace, pain management, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgical fixation with plates or screws.

Medications:
Pain relief is managed with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen . Severe pain may require opioids like codeine (short-term use).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in individuals of all ages; accounts for 5–10% of all fractures.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contact sports, cycling, motor vehicle accidents, osteoporosis, and high-impact trauma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent in most cases, with proper treatment leading to complete healing. Complications may occur in severe or displaced fractures.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Malunion, nonunion, neurovascular injury, shoulder stiffness, or chronic pain.

Shoulder dislocation (anterior, posterior)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Upper Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Shoulder Injuries

Symptoms:
severe shoulder pain; visible shoulder deformity; inability to move the shoulder; swelling; bruising; numbness or weakness in the arm

Root Cause:
Displacement of the humeral head from the glenoid fossa, often due to trauma, falls, or forceful arm movement. Anterior dislocations are more common than posterior.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, confirmed with X-rays or MRI to assess associated soft tissue damage.

Treatment:
Reduction (repositioning of the joint), followed by immobilization and physical therapy. Surgery may be required for recurrent dislocations or ligament damage.

Medications:
Pain management with NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen , naproxen ). Muscle relaxants like diazepam or methocarbamol can help reduce muscle spasms.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for approximately 50% of all major joint dislocations, with anterior dislocations being the most common.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contact sports, previous shoulder dislocations, joint hypermobility, and high-energy trauma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate treatment, but recurrence rates are high in young, active individuals.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrent dislocations, labral tears, axillary nerve injury, rotator cuff damage, and joint arthritis.

Rotator cuff tears

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Upper Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Shoulder Injuries

Symptoms:
shoulder pain, especially at night; weakness in the shoulder; difficulty lifting or rotating the arm; cracking or popping sensation; limited range of motion

Root Cause:
Partial or complete tear of the tendons forming the rotator cuff, often due to overuse, degeneration, or acute injury.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, imaging studies such as ultrasound, MRI, or X-rays with contrast (arthrogram).

Treatment:
Rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications for mild cases; surgical repair for severe or chronic tears.

Medications:
NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce pain and inflammation. Corticosteroid injections may be used for persistent inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Increases with age; occurs in 10–25% of individuals over 60 years. Common in athletes and individuals with repetitive overhead activities.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, repetitive overhead activities, heavy lifting, trauma, smoking, and poor blood supply to the tendons.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies based on severity; small tears often respond well to conservative treatment, but larger tears may require surgery and have prolonged recovery times.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Persistent shoulder pain, weakness, stiffness, loss of function, and arthritis in chronic untreated cases.

Humeral shaft fracture

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Upper Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Arm and Elbow Injuries

Symptoms:
pain in the upper arm; swelling; bruising; difficulty moving the arm; visible deformity; crepitus (grating sensation) at the fracture site

Root Cause:
Break or crack along the diaphysis (shaft) of the humerus bone, often caused by direct trauma or a twisting injury.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, X-rays to confirm fracture type and location, CT scan for complex fractures.

Treatment:
Immobilization with a brace or splint, surgical fixation with plates and screws or intramedullary nails for unstable fractures.

Medications:
Pain relief using NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen , diclofenac ) or opioids (e.g., tramadol ) for severe pain. Muscle relaxants may also be prescribed for associated muscle spasms.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for approximately 3-5% of all fractures.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-energy trauma (e.g., car accidents), falls, osteoporosis, pathological fractures due to cancer or infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good in most cases with proper treatment; union typically occurs within 8-12 weeks.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Radial nerve palsy, malunion, nonunion, infection (if surgical treatment is used).

Supracondylar fracture

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Upper Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Arm and Elbow Injuries

Symptoms:
swelling around the elbow; pain and tenderness; inability to straighten the arm; bruising; visible deformity

Root Cause:
Fracture at the distal humerus just above the elbow joint, often caused by a fall on an outstretched hand.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, X-rays, Doppler ultrasound or angiography to assess vascular involvement in severe cases.

Treatment:
Closed reduction and casting for non-displaced fractures, surgical pinning (percutaneous pinning) for displaced fractures.

Medications:
NSAIDs for pain relief (e.g., ibuprofen ), acetaminophen for mild pain, and antibiotics if surgery is performed to prevent infection.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Most common elbow fracture in children, particularly between ages 5-10.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Falls, particularly during play or sports, or weak bone development.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with timely treatment; healing typically occurs within 4-6 weeks in children.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Vascular injury (brachial artery), nerve injury, compartment syndrome, cubitus varus deformity (gunstock deformity).

Elbow dislocation

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Upper Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Arm and Elbow Injuries

Symptoms:
intense pain; swelling; inability to bend or straighten the elbow; visible deformity; numbness or tingling in the hand

Root Cause:
Displacement of the bones in the elbow joint, often caused by a fall on an outstretched hand or high-energy trauma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, X-rays to confirm dislocation, MRI or CT if associated fractures or soft tissue injuries are suspected.

Treatment:
Closed reduction under sedation for simple dislocations, surgical repair for complex dislocations or associated fractures.

Medications:
Pain management with NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen , naproxen ), opioids (e.g., morphine ) for severe pain, and muscle relaxants if needed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Elbow dislocations are the second most common large joint dislocation after shoulder dislocations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Sports injuries, falls, and motor vehicle accidents.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally favorable with early reduction and rehabilitation; recovery occurs within 6-12 weeks.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Joint stiffness, ligament damage, recurrent dislocations, vascular or nerve injuries, arthritis in chronic cases.

Radius and Ulna Fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Upper Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Forearm and Wrist Injuries

Symptoms:
pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area; visible deformity of the forearm or wrist; limited range of motion or inability to move the wrist or fingers; bruising and numbness due to nerve compression or damage

Root Cause:
Fractures of the radius or ulna occur when the bone(s) break due to trauma, such as a fall, sports injury, or high-energy impact. Specific fracture types (e.g., Colles’ or Smith’s fractures) depend on the direction and force of the injury.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination (checking for deformity, tenderness, and range of motion). Imaging

Treatment:
Immobilization with a cast or splint for simple, non-displaced fractures. Closed reduction for fractures with misalignment. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) surgery for severe or displaced fractures. Physical therapy after healing to restore mobility and strength.

Medications:
Pain management medications - Acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen . Bone healing support medications - Calcium and vitamin D supplements if indicated. Antibiotics - Prescribed prophylactically if the fracture is open or at risk of infection.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Forearm fractures account for about 50% of all fractures in children and 15% of fractures in adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Osteoporosis or low bone density. Participation in contact or high-impact sports. Falls, especially in older adults or those with balance issues. Trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or workplace injuries.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good prognosis with prompt treatment, particularly for simple fractures. Severe fractures may require longer recovery and carry a risk of long-term stiffness or weakness.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Malunion or nonunion of the fracture. Nerve damage (e.g., median nerve in Colles’ fracture). Compartment syndrome (swelling leading to pressure buildup in the forearm). Post-traumatic arthritis in the wrist or forearm joints.

Colles’ Fracture

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Upper Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Forearm and Wrist Injuries

Symptoms:
pain, swelling, and tenderness around the wrist; deformity resembling a "dinner fork" due to dorsal displacement of the distal radius; difficulty moving the wrist or fingers; bruising and potential nerve symptoms like tingling or numbness in severe cases

Root Cause:
A break in the distal radius bone, typically caused by falling on an outstretched hand with the wrist extended.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed with X-rays showing a distal radius fracture with dorsal displacement.

Treatment:
Treated with closed reduction and casting or surgical fixation for severe cases.

Medications:
Pain relievers - Acetaminophen or NSAIDs like ibuprofen for pain and inflammation. Calcium and vitamin D supplements - Recommended in cases of osteoporosis or low bone density.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in older adults, especially postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, accounting for up to 20% of all fractures in this demographic.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, osteoporosis, and previous wrist fractures. High-impact activities or falls. Weak bone density due to medical conditions or medication side effects.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally favorable with proper treatment, though mild stiffness or reduced wrist strength may persist. Early rehabilitation improves outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Malunion, leading to reduced range of motion. Nerve injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Persistent wrist pain or post-traumatic arthritis.

Smith’s Fracture

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Upper Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Forearm and Wrist Injuries

Symptoms:
wrist pain and tenderness; swelling and bruising around the fracture site; deformity with the distal radius displaced toward the palm; difficulty moving or gripping objects

Root Cause:
Fracture of the distal radius due to falling on a flexed wrist or direct trauma to the back of the wrist.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed with X-rays showing a distal radius fracture with volar displacement.

Treatment:
Treated with reduction and immobilization or surgical fixation, depending on severity.

Medications:
Pain relievers - Acetaminophen or NSAIDs like naproxen to manage discomfort. Bone-strengthening supplements - Calcium and vitamin D, particularly for individuals with osteoporosis.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Less common than Colles’ fractures but occurs in both older adults with osteoporosis and younger individuals with high-impact injuries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Osteoporosis, falls on a flexed wrist, and high-energy trauma

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable when promptly treated, though stiffness or decreased wrist mobility can occur. Early rehabilitation improves outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Malunion or improper healing. Chronic wrist pain or reduced function. Nerve or tendon injuries due to the fracture displacement.

Scaphoid Fracture

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Upper Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Forearm and Wrist Injuries

Symptoms:
pain and tenderness in the anatomical snuffbox (the depression at the base of the thumb); swelling around the wrist; difficulty moving the wrist and thumb; pain with gripping or lifting objects

Root Cause:
Fracture of the scaphoid bone in the wrist, typically caused by a fall onto an outstretched hand. It is often missed on initial X-rays due to its location.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination - Tenderness in the anatomical snuffbox. X-rays - Can be normal initially, but repeat imaging or CT/MRI may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment:
Non-surgical - Casting or splinting the wrist to immobilize the scaphoid and allow it to heal. Surgical - Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) if the fracture is displaced or if non-surgical treatment fails. Physical therapy post-healing for strengthening and restoring motion.

Medications:
Pain management - Acetaminophen or NSAIDs like ibuprofen to control pain and inflammation. Bone healing - Calcium and vitamin D supplements may be advised to promote healing, particularly in cases with poor blood supply.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Scaphoid fractures are the most common type of carpal bone fracture, accounting for about 60% of all wrist fractures.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact trauma or falls, particularly in sports or work-related injuries. Young adults (especially those engaged in activities such as football, skiing, or cycling).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good prognosis with appropriate treatment; however, there is a risk of nonunion (failure to heal) due to poor blood supply to the scaphoid.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Nonunion or delayed union of the fracture. Osteoarthritis due to joint instability if not treated properly. Avascular necrosis (death of bone tissue due to lack of blood supply).

Wrist Dislocations

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Upper Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Forearm and Wrist Injuries

Symptoms:
severe pain and deformity in the wrist; swelling and bruising around the wrist; inability to move the wrist or fingers; numbness or tingling if nerves are compressed

Root Cause:
Dislocation of the carpal bones in the wrist, often caused by high-energy trauma, such as a fall from a height or a motor vehicle accident.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination - Visible deformity and limited motion. X-rays or CT scans to confirm the type of dislocation and rule out fractures.

Treatment:
Closed reduction - Manipulating the bones back into place under anesthesia. Surgical reduction and fixation - In cases where closed reduction is unsuccessful or the dislocation is complex. Immobilization with a cast or splint after reduction. Physical therapy to restore range of motion and strength.

Medications:
Pain relief - NSAIDs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage pain and inflammation. Antibiotics - In cases of open wrist dislocations (rare), to prevent infection.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Wrist dislocations are rare compared to fractures, but they often result from high-energy trauma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-energy trauma such as car accidents, falls from heights, or sports injuries. Osteoporosis or weakened bones may make the wrist more susceptible to dislocations.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt and effective treatment, most people recover well. However, long-term complications can include joint instability and post-traumatic arthritis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Nerve damage, such as median or ulnar nerve injury. Tendon injuries or rupture due to forceful dislocation. Chronic pain, instability, and arthritis if not properly treated.

Metacarpal fractures (e.g., boxer’s fracture)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Upper Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Hand and Finger Injuries

Symptoms:
pain in the hand, particularly over the metacarpal; swelling and bruising around the fracture site; deformity or misalignment of the hand; difficulty moving the fingers; tenderness upon palpation of the hand

Root Cause:
A metacarpal fracture typically occurs from a blunt force trauma or punch, often involving the fifth metacarpal (boxer's fracture) due to striking a hard object.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on physical examination and confirmed by X-rays to assess the location and severity of the fracture.

Treatment:
Conservative treatment - immobilization with a cast or splint if the fracture is non-displaced. Surgical treatment - for displaced fractures or fractures that affect joint alignment, surgery with pins, plates, or screws may be required.

Medications:
Pain management is typically handled with over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen (analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDs). In cases of severe pain or post-surgery, stronger opioids (e.g., oxycodone ) may be prescribed temporarily.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Boxer’s fractures are common in individuals who engage in fistfights, particularly in men aged 18-30.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Engaging in fistfights or activities involving high-risk hand trauma. Alcohol intoxication during trauma events. Lack of protective hand gear during activities.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most metacarpal fractures heal well with appropriate treatment, and hand function is often fully restored, though some cases may require rehabilitation to regain full motion.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include nonunion or malunion of the bone, stiffness, loss of motion, or arthritis in the affected joint.

Phalangeal fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Upper Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Hand and Finger Injuries

Symptoms:
pain and tenderness in the finger or toe; swelling and bruising at the fracture site; deformity or abnormal alignment of the digit; inability to move the affected finger or toe

Root Cause:
Fractures of the phalanges (bones of the fingers or toes) result from direct trauma, such as crush injuries, falls, or sports-related accidents.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination and X-rays are used to confirm the fracture and assess its severity (e.g., whether it's a simple or complex fracture).

Treatment:
Conservative treatment - If the fracture is non-displaced, a splint or buddy tape may be used to immobilize the digit. Surgical treatment - For displaced or complex fractures, surgery may be required to realign the bones using pins, screws, or plates.

Medications:
Pain relief is commonly provided with NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen , and in more severe cases, opioid analgesics like hydrocodone may be prescribed post-surgery.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Phalangeal fractures are commonly seen in sports injuries, occupational accidents, or falls.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Participation in contact sports or activities involving high risk for trauma to the hands or feet. Occupational hazards (e.g., construction work). Poor bone health due to conditions like osteoporosis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper treatment, most phalangeal fractures heal well, with restoration of function, though there can be complications like joint stiffness or long-term pain if not treated properly.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include malalignment, nonunion, joint deformity, stiffness, and arthritis.

Tendon lacerations (e.g., flexor or extensor tendons)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Upper Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Hand and Finger Injuries

Symptoms:
inability to move the affected finger normally; pain at the laceration site; swelling and tenderness over the tendon; visible laceration or wound

Root Cause:
Tendon lacerations occur due to cuts or sharp injuries to the fingers or hands, resulting in the severing or damaging of the flexor or extensor tendons responsible for finger movement.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical assessment, including physical examination to observe the loss of movement. Ultrasound or MRI may be used to assess tendon integrity, and a laceration can be confirmed with a thorough examination.

Treatment:
Surgical repair is required to reattach the tendon and restore function. After surgery, physical therapy is often needed for rehabilitation to regain full mobility and strength.

Medications:
Pain management typically includes NSAIDs like ibuprofen and acetaminophen . In some cases, stronger medications like opioids (e.g., morphine or oxycodone ) may be prescribed post-surgery. Antibiotics may be given if the wound is contaminated to prevent infection (e.g., amoxicillin-clavulanate).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Tendon lacerations are more common in individuals who work in environments with high risks of sharp objects, as well as in people involved in sports or accidents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Occupational risk factors (e.g., working with knives, machinery, or in construction). Trauma or cutting accidents. Poor protective measures (e.g., not wearing gloves in hazardous environments).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Surgical repair generally results in good recovery, though full functionality may take time to return. Complications can delay recovery.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include infection, tendon rupture, scar tissue formation, and long-term loss of finger function or flexibility.

Hip Fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Lower Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Hip and Thigh Injuries

Symptoms:
severe hip pain; inability to move the hip or leg; swelling, bruising around the hip area; shortened and externally rotated leg; difficulty bearing weight or walking

Root Cause:
A fracture in the upper part of the femur (thigh bone) near the hip joint, often caused by trauma, falls, or osteoporotic weakening of the bone.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, X-rays, and possibly CT scans or MRIs to assess the type and extent of the fracture.

Treatment:
Surgical intervention is commonly required, such as hip replacement or internal fixation with plates, screws, or rods. Non-surgical treatment may involve immobilization and bed rest in some cases, but this is less common.

Medications:
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ) for pain management. Opioids (e.g., morphine , oxycodone ) may be prescribed for more severe pain in the short term. Muscle relaxants may also be prescribed to alleviate muscle spasms post-surgery. These medications are typically classified as analgesics (pain relievers) and muscle relaxants.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in older adults, particularly those with osteoporosis; affects approximately 250,000 people in the U.S. annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age (elderly), osteoporosis, previous hip fractures, certain medications (e.g., steroids), high-impact trauma (e.g., falls or accidents).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, the prognosis is good for regaining mobility. However, older adults may experience complications such as prolonged recovery, infections, or hip replacement failure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) due to immobility. Infection, especially after surgery. Nonunion or malunion of the fracture. Chronic pain or post-traumatic arthritis. Loss of function or mobility.

Femoral Shaft Fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Lower Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Hip and Thigh Injuries

Symptoms:
severe pain in the thigh or hip area; swelling, bruising, and deformity in the leg; inability to move the leg; inability to bear weight or walk

Root Cause:
A fracture of the femur (thigh bone) along its length, often resulting from high-impact trauma, such as car accidents or falls from a height.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
X-rays are the primary diagnostic tool, but CT or MRI scans may be used for complex fractures to evaluate bone and soft tissue damage.

Treatment:
Typically requires surgery, including the use of intramedullary rods or plates to stabilize the bone. In some cases, traction may be used temporarily.

Medications:
Analgesics such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ) for pain relief. Opioid analgesics (e.g., morphine ) for severe pain management immediately after the fracture. Muscle relaxants may be prescribed if muscle spasms occur post-surgery. These medications fall under the categories of pain relievers and muscle relaxants.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively uncommon but serious, typically affecting individuals in motor vehicle accidents or those with high-energy trauma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact trauma, motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, osteoporosis, and other bone disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with proper surgical intervention and rehabilitation, though recovery can take several months.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection or delayed healing following surgery. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). Chronic pain or limited range of motion. Nonunion or malunion of the fracture.

Hip Dislocations (Anterior, Posterior)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Lower Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Hip and Thigh Injuries

Symptoms:
severe pain in the hip area; inability to move the hip or leg; deformity or abnormal positioning of the leg; numbness or tingling in the leg or foot; swelling and bruising

Root Cause:
Dislocation of the femoral head from the acetabulum (hip socket), often due to high-impact trauma such as motor vehicle accidents or falls from a height. Anterior dislocations involve the femur moving forward, while posterior dislocations involve the femur moving backward.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination along with X-rays to confirm the dislocation and evaluate for associated fractures.

Treatment:
Emergency reduction (manipulation to reposition the femoral head back into the socket), followed by immobilization. In some cases, surgery may be needed if the dislocation is associated with fractures or if reduction is unsuccessful.

Medications:
Analgesics such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ) for pain management. Opioid pain medications (e.g., morphine , oxycodone ) for acute pain, especially following the reduction process. Muscle relaxants may be prescribed to relieve muscle spasms during recovery. These are categorized as pain relievers and muscle relaxants.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively rare, accounting for 0.5-3% of all hip injuries, but can occur more frequently in high-impact accidents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-energy trauma (e.g., motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries), history of previous dislocations, hip arthritis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most patients recover well with prompt treatment, although there may be a risk of post-traumatic arthritis or complications related to nerve damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Avascular necrosis (loss of blood supply to the femoral head). Nerve damage, particularly to the sciatic nerve in posterior dislocations. Osteoarthritis or post-traumatic arthritis. Recurrence of dislocations.

Patellar fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Lower Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Knee Injuries

Symptoms:
pain in the front of the knee; swelling; difficulty straightening the knee; bruising; inability to bear weight

Root Cause:
The patella (kneecap) is broken due to trauma, such as a direct blow or a sudden forceful contraction of the quadriceps muscle.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, X-rays to confirm the fracture type, and occasionally CT scans for complex fractures.

Treatment:
Non-surgical treatment with immobilization using a knee brace or cast for less severe fractures; surgical treatment (open reduction and internal fixation) for displaced fractures. Physical therapy is often required post-treatment.

Medications:
Pain relief with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, e.g., ibuprofen ) or prescription analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen with codeine or hydrocodone ). Muscle relaxants (e.g., cyclobenzaprine ) may be prescribed for associated muscle tension.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively uncommon; accounts for approximately 1% of all skeletal injuries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact sports, falls, motor vehicle accidents, osteoporosis, or other bone-weakening conditions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate treatment; most individuals regain full knee function, though some may experience stiffness or residual pain.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic knee pain, stiffness, arthritis, or malunion/nonunion of the fracture.

ACL, MCL, or PCL tears

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Lower Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Knee Injuries

Symptoms:
knee instability; swelling; pain; limited range of motion; popping sound during injury; difficulty walking

Root Cause:
Ligament tears occur due to sudden twisting, hyperextension, or direct impact to the knee.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical tests (e.g., Lachman test, pivot shift test), MRI for detailed imaging of soft tissues, and X-rays to rule out bone injuries.

Treatment:
Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) initially; physical therapy, bracing, and surgical reconstruction (e.g., ACL graft surgery) for severe tears.

Medications:
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen or naproxen ) for pain and inflammation. Post-surgical pain managed with acetaminophen or prescription opioids (e.g., oxycodone ) if needed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in athletes, especially in sports requiring rapid changes in direction or jumping; ACL injuries alone affect approximately 200,000 people annually in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Participation in high-impact sports, previous knee injuries, poor muscle conditioning, or biomechanical imbalances.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; full recovery often takes 6-12 months. Many individuals return to pre-injury levels of activity with proper treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic knee instability, arthritis, re-injury, or incomplete recovery of strength and motion.

Meniscus tears

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Lower Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Knee Injuries

Symptoms:
pain in the knee; swelling; stiffness; catching or locking sensation in the knee; difficulty moving the knee fully; instability in the knee

Root Cause:
A tear in the cartilage (meniscus) that cushions the knee joint, often caused by twisting or pivoting movements or due to degeneration over time.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination (e.g., McMurray test, Apley grind test), MRI for detailed imaging, and sometimes arthroscopy to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment:
Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE) for mild cases; physical therapy to restore strength and motion; surgical repair or partial meniscectomy for severe tears.

Medications:
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen or naproxen ) for pain and inflammation. Post-surgical pain management may include acetaminophen or short-term prescription opioids (e.g., hydrocodone ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common injury, particularly in athletes and older adults; approximately 500,000 meniscus surgeries are performed annually in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact sports, previous knee injuries, aging, or activities requiring frequent pivoting or twisting motions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with appropriate treatment; recovery time ranges from a few weeks for minor tears to several months for surgical cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pain, stiffness, arthritis, or incomplete recovery of knee function.

Knee dislocations

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Lower Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Knee Injuries

Symptoms:
severe knee pain; visible deformity; swelling; instability; numbness or tingling (due to nerve involvement); loss of pulses in the lower leg (vascular injury)

Root Cause:
Displacement of the femur and tibia at the knee joint, often caused by high-energy trauma such as car accidents or sports injuries.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, X-rays to confirm dislocation, MRI to assess ligament and soft tissue damage, and Doppler ultrasound or angiography to check for vascular injury.

Treatment:
Emergency reduction to realign the knee joint, splinting or bracing, and surgical repair of damaged ligaments, blood vessels, or nerves. Physical therapy is essential post-treatment.

Medications:
Pain management with NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ) or stronger analgesics like opioids (e.g., morphine or oxycodone ). Antibiotics may be given if an open wound is present to prevent infection.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but serious injury; accounts for less than 0.5% of orthopedic injuries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-energy trauma (e.g., car accidents, falls), sports involving high-impact collisions, and pre-existing ligament laxity.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Highly variable depending on the severity of the injury; some individuals recover fully, while others may have long-term complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Vascular or nerve injury, chronic knee instability, stiffness, arthritis, or risk of limb amputation in severe cases with untreated vascular compromise.

Tibia and fibula fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Lower Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Leg and Ankle Injuries

Symptoms:
severe pain in the lower leg; swelling; bruising; deformity; inability to bear weight; visible bone in open fractures

Root Cause:
A break in the tibia (shinbone) or fibula (smaller bone of the lower leg), usually caused by trauma such as falls, car accidents, or sports injuries.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, X-rays to identify the fracture's location and severity, CT scan for complex fractures.

Treatment:
Immobilization with a cast or brace for minor fractures; surgical fixation with plates, screws, or rods for severe or displaced fractures.

Medications:
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ), opioid analgesics for severe pain, antibiotics for open fractures to prevent infection.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among athletes and individuals involved in high-impact activities; tibial fractures are the most frequently fractured long bones in the body.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Participation in contact sports, osteoporosis, motor vehicle accidents, falls from height.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good prognosis with appropriate treatment, though recovery may take several months. Complicated fractures may require longer healing and physical therapy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection in open fractures, delayed bone healing, compartment syndrome, nerve or blood vessel damage, post-traumatic arthritis.

Achilles tendon rupture

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Lower Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Leg and Ankle Injuries

Symptoms:
sudden, sharp pain in the back of the lower leg; a popping or snapping sensation; difficulty walking; weakness in pushing off the foot; swelling and bruising near the heel

Root Cause:
A partial or complete tear of the Achilles tendon, usually resulting from sudden stress or overstretching.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical exam, positive Thompson test, MRI or ultrasound to confirm and assess severity.

Treatment:
Non-surgical treatment with casting or bracing, surgical repair for active individuals or complete ruptures, followed by rehabilitation and physical therapy.

Medications:
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ) to manage discomfort.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Most common in men aged 30-50 engaged in recreational sports involving jumping or sprinting.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Middle age, participation in high-impact sports, previous tendinopathy, certain antibiotics (e.g., fluoroquinolones), corticosteroid injections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Typically good with proper treatment; however, recovery can take 6-12 months. Re-rupture is possible without adequate rehabilitation.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic tendon pain, stiffness, weakness, or re-rupture if not adequately treated.

Bimalleolar fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Lower Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Leg and Ankle Injuries

Symptoms:
severe pain in the ankle; swelling; bruising; deformity of the ankle; inability to bear weight; instability of the ankle joint

Root Cause:
A fracture involving both the medial and lateral malleoli, leading to joint instability. Commonly caused by trauma such as twisting injuries or falls.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical exam, X-rays of the ankle, CT scan for detailed imaging in complex cases.

Treatment:
Surgical fixation with plates and screws in most cases; casting or bracing for minor, non-displaced fractures.

Medications:
NSAIDs for pain and inflammation, opioids for severe pain, anticoagulants to prevent blood clots if immobilized.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in all age groups but particularly in individuals with a high risk of falls or sports injuries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Osteoporosis, high-impact activities, motor vehicle accidents, previous ankle injuries.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Typically good with proper surgical treatment and rehabilitation, but recovery may take several months.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Post-traumatic arthritis, stiffness, nerve or blood vessel injury, delayed healing.

Trimalleolar fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Lower Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Leg and Ankle Injuries

Symptoms:
severe pain and swelling in the ankle; deformity; bruising; inability to bear weight; instability in the ankle joint

Root Cause:
A fracture involving the medial, lateral, and posterior malleoli, leading to significant instability and damage to the ankle joint.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical exam, X-rays, CT scan for evaluating complex fracture patterns.

Treatment:
Surgical intervention with fixation devices like plates and screws; immobilization and physical therapy post-surgery.

Medications:
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen or naproxen ) for inflammation, opioids for severe pain, antibiotics if surgery involves open fractures.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Less common than other ankle fractures but seen in high-energy trauma cases like car accidents or falls from height.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Osteoporosis, advanced age, sports injuries, vehicular accidents.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Recovery can take several months to a year, with good outcomes if treated appropriately; long-term physical therapy may be required.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Arthritis, chronic pain, joint stiffness, deep vein thrombosis, delayed union or non-union.

Metatarsal Fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Lower Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Foot and Toe Injuries

Symptoms:
pain and tenderness in the foot; swelling; bruising; difficulty walking or bearing weight; visible deformity in severe cases

Root Cause:
A fracture or break in one or more of the five metatarsal bones in the foot, often caused by trauma, overuse, or repetitive stress.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, X-rays of the foot, CT scans in complex cases.

Treatment:
Rest, immobilization with a cast or walking boot, physical therapy, and in severe or displaced fractures, surgical intervention with internal fixation.

Medications:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen to manage pain and inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; accounts for approximately 35% of foot injuries seen in emergency departments.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact sports, repetitive stress, osteoporosis, improper footwear, direct trauma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with proper treatment; healing time ranges from 6 to 12 weeks. Some cases may require longer rehabilitation.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Delayed healing, malunion, chronic pain, and in rare cases, avascular necrosis (particularly of the fifth metatarsal).

Lisfranc Injury (Midfoot Dislocation)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Lower Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Foot and Toe Injuries

Symptoms:
severe pain in the midfoot; swelling; bruising on the top and bottom of the foot; inability to bear weight; visible deformity in severe cases

Root Cause:
Disruption of the Lisfranc ligament complex or fractures of the midfoot bones, often caused by trauma such as falls or car accidents.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through clinical examination, X-rays, and sometimes MRI or CT.

Treatment:
Treated with immobilization for minor cases or surgical fixation for severe injuries.

Medications:
NSAIDs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain control. Post-surgical patients may receive anticoagulants to prevent blood clots.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, occurring in approximately 1 in 55,000 individuals annually, often seen in athletes and trauma cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact sports, car accidents, falls from height, osteopenia.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Dependent on the severity of the injury; mild cases recover well with treatment, but severe injuries may lead to chronic pain or arthritis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pain, post-traumatic arthritis, compartment syndrome, and foot deformities.

Toe Fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Lower Extremity Injuries

Sub-category: Foot and Toe Injuries

Symptoms:
pain and tenderness in the toe; swelling; bruising; difficulty walking; visible deformity in severe cases

Root Cause:
Break in one or more bones of the toes caused by trauma, such as stubbing or dropping a heavy object on the foot.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, X-rays to confirm the fracture and assess alignment.

Treatment:
Buddy taping for non-displaced fractures, rest, ice, elevation, and in severe cases, surgery with pinning or screws.

Medications:
Over-the-counter NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen , naproxen ) for pain relief. Prescription painkillers may be used in severe fractures.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, accounting for approximately 9% of all foot injuries seen in emergency departments.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma, high-impact sports, osteoporosis, improper footwear.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent in most cases, with healing typically within 4 to 6 weeks. Severe fractures may require longer recovery.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Malunion, chronic pain, stiffness, and in rare cases, deformity.

Deep Lacerations Requiring Sutures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Soft Tissue Injuries

Sub-category: Lacerations and Cuts

Symptoms:
visible deep cut through the skin and underlying tissue; bleeding that is difficult to control; exposed muscle, fat, or bone; pain at the injury site; swelling or redness around the wound

Root Cause:
The integrity of the skin and underlying tissues is disrupted due to a sharp or blunt object, leading to exposure of deeper layers and potential infection risk.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination of the wound to assess depth, location, and severity; evaluation for damage to underlying structures such as tendons or nerves. Imaging may be used if a foreign body is suspected.

Treatment:
Cleaning the wound thoroughly, applying local or regional anesthesia, suturing in layers to close the wound, and covering with sterile dressing. Tetanus prophylaxis may be administered.

Medications:
Antibiotics (such as amoxicillin-clavulanate) may be prescribed to prevent infection. Over-the-counter or prescription analgesics (e.g., ibuprofen or acetaminophen ) are used for pain relief.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; millions of cases annually in emergency departments worldwide, often resulting from accidental injuries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Use of sharp objects, occupational hazards, recreational activities, and insufficient safety measures.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with proper care; wounds usually heal within 7-14 days depending on size and location. Scarring may occur.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, delayed healing, excessive scarring or keloid formation, and damage to underlying structures such as nerves or tendons.

Nerve and Tendon Injuries

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Soft Tissue Injuries

Sub-category: Nerve and Tendon Damage

Symptoms:
pain at the injury site; numbness or tingling in the affected area; weakness or inability to move a limb or digit; swelling or bruising; visible severance or deformity in severe cases

Root Cause:
Damage to nerves or tendons caused by lacerations, crush injuries, or extreme strain, resulting in loss of motor or sensory function.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination focusing on motor function, sensory deficits, and tendon integrity. Imaging studies such as MRI or ultrasound may be used to assess the extent of tendon or nerve damage. Electromyography (EMG) may assess nerve function.

Treatment:
Surgical repair of severed nerves or tendons (e.g., suturing or grafting), immobilization with splints or casts, followed by physical therapy to restore function and strength.

Medications:
Antibiotics (e.g., cephalexin ) to prevent infection if associated with open wounds. Pain management with NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ) or opioids (e.g., oxycodone ) for severe pain. Nerve pain may be managed with gabapentinoids (e.g., gabapentin or pregabalin ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Fairly common, particularly in industrial or sports settings. Tendon injuries account for about 30% of hand injuries requiring medical attention.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Occupational hazards, participation in contact sports, repetitive strain, and accidental trauma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; successful recovery often depends on early intervention. Tendon injuries may recover fully in 6-12 weeks with proper treatment, while nerve injuries may take months to years depending on severity.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pain, loss of function or strength, infection, scar tissue formation, and permanent nerve or tendon damage in severe cases.

Muscle Bruises

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Soft Tissue Injuries

Sub-category: Contusions and Hematomas

Symptoms:
localized pain; swelling; skin discoloration (bruising); tenderness; limited range of motion in the affected area

Root Cause:
Caused by trauma or blunt force to the muscle, leading to bleeding under the skin and tissue damage without breaking the skin.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination assessing pain, swelling, and discoloration; imaging such as ultrasound or MRI may be used to evaluate the extent of injury in severe cases.

Treatment:
Rest, ice application, compression, elevation (RICE therapy); physical therapy for severe cases to restore function.

Medications:
Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce pain and swelling. NSAIDs are classified as anti-inflammatory medications.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common, especially in athletes and individuals involved in physical activities or accidents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Participation in contact sports, lack of protective gear, falls or collisions, and insufficient muscle conditioning.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally excellent with proper care; most bruises resolve within 1-2 weeks. Severe cases may take longer, especially if accompanied by significant tissue damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Risk of compartment syndrome, myositis ossificans (abnormal bone formation in the muscle), or prolonged pain and stiffness if not treated properly.

Rhabdomyolysis (Muscle Breakdown)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Soft Tissue Injuries

Sub-category: Crush Injuries

Symptoms:
muscle pain; weakness; swelling; dark or tea-colored urine; fatigue; nausea; vomiting

Root Cause:
Breakdown of muscle tissue leads to the release of intracellular contents, including myoglobin, creatine kinase, and electrolytes, into the bloodstream, potentially causing kidney damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests showing elevated creatine kinase (CK) levels, myoglobin in urine, electrolyte imbalances (hyperkalemia, hypocalcemia), and renal function tests.

Treatment:
Aggressive intravenous fluid resuscitation to prevent kidney damage, electrolyte correction, and, in severe cases, dialysis or fasciotomy.

Medications:
Medications for rhabdomyolysis may include sodium bicarbonate (to alkalinize urine), diuretics (to support urine output), and calcium gluconate (to manage hyperkalemia). These belong to classes such as alkalizing agents, diuretics, and electrolyte replacements.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in 26,000 cases per year in the U.S.; common causes include trauma, overexertion, and drug toxicity.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma, crush injuries, prolonged immobility, intense exercise, dehydration, statin use, and drug or alcohol abuse.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early treatment; delayed intervention may lead to acute kidney injury or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Acute kidney injury, electrolyte imbalances, compartment syndrome, cardiac arrhythmias, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).

Limb Ischemia

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Vascular Injuries

Sub-category: Acute Ischemia

Symptoms:
sudden severe pain in the limb; pallor (paleness); pulselessness; paresthesia (numbness or tingling); paralysis; poikilothermia (cold limb)

Root Cause:
Obstruction of arterial blood flow to a limb, causing tissue hypoxia and risk of irreversible damage if not promptly treated.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed via clinical signs, ankle-brachial index (ABI), Doppler ultrasound, or angiography.

Treatment:
Treated urgently with anticoagulation, thrombolysis, angioplasty, or surgical revascularization.

Medications:
Anticoagulants like heparin (to prevent clot progression) and thrombolytics like alteplase (to dissolve clots) are commonly used; these belong to anticoagulant and fibrinolytic classes, respectively.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Acute limb ischemia affects approximately 1-2 cases per 10,000 annually; common in older adults with cardiovascular risk factors.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Atherosclerosis, peripheral artery disease, atrial fibrillation, smoking, diabetes, and hypertension.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the speed of treatment; untreated ischemia can lead to limb loss or death within hours to days. Early intervention improves outcomes significantly.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Permanent nerve or muscle damage, limb amputation, reperfusion injury, acute kidney injury, and death.

First-degree burns (superficial)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Burns and Thermal Injuries

Sub-category: Burn Classifications

Symptoms:
redness; pain; swelling; dry skin; peeling after a few days

Root Cause:
The epidermis (outer layer of skin) is damaged by heat, UV radiation, or chemicals, leading to inflammation and pain.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically based on clinical examination, considering the burn depth and appearance.

Treatment:
Cool the burn with running cold water for 10–15 minutes, apply moisturizing lotion, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Usually, no medical intervention is necessary unless symptoms worsen.

Medications:
Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen , which are non-prescription analgesics (pain relievers) and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
First-degree burns are the most common type of burn injury, particularly in everyday accidents such as sunburns.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged sun exposure, contact with hot surfaces or liquids, exposure to chemicals or flames.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Heals within 3 to 5 days with no scarring, although temporary redness and discomfort may persist.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rare, but can include infection if the skin becomes broken or if proper wound care is not followed.

Second-degree burns (partial-thickness)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Burns and Thermal Injuries

Sub-category: Burn Classifications

Symptoms:
blistering; severe pain; red or white skin; swelling; wet or weeping skin

Root Cause:
The epidermis and part of the dermis (second layer of skin) are damaged, causing fluid leakage and blistering.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through clinical examination, with attention to blister formation and the depth of the burn.

Treatment:
Immediate cooling of the burn, wound cleaning, sterile dressing, pain management, and in some cases, topical antibiotics to prevent infection.

Medications:
Pain management with oral analgesics such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen , topical antibiotics like silver sulfadiazine (a cream used for burn wounds), and sometimes opioid analgesics for severe pain. Silver sulfadiazine is classified as a topical antibiotic.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Second-degree burns are common in cases of scalding, flash burns, and accidents involving hot objects.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to hot liquids, flames, chemicals, and electrical burns.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Healing typically occurs in 2 to 3 weeks, but scarring and pigment changes can result. Complications like infection can prolong healing.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, scarring, and fluid loss, particularly if large areas are affected. Hypertrophic scarring or keloid formation is possible.

Third-degree burns (full-thickness)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Burns and Thermal Injuries

Sub-category: Burn Classifications

Symptoms:
charred or white skin; no pain at the burn site (due to nerve damage); severe swelling; blisters that may not form or break open

Root Cause:
Both the epidermis and dermis are completely destroyed, and underlying tissues like fat, muscle, and bone may be affected, leading to irreversible damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through physical examination, often supported by imaging in cases where deeper structures are involved.

Treatment:
Emergency medical treatment is required, including intravenous fluids to prevent shock, wound debridement, skin grafting, and sometimes surgery to repair the affected areas.

Medications:
Intravenous pain relievers such as morphine (an opioid analgesic) for severe pain, antibiotics like vancomycin or cefazolin for infection control, and tetanus vaccination if necessary. These medications fall under the classifications of opioids, antibiotics, and vaccines.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Third-degree burns are less common but are extremely serious when they do occur, often resulting from serious accidents or large-scale fires.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-energy accidents, fire, electrical burns, chemical exposures, or contact with hot objects or liquids for prolonged periods.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Significant scarring and potential functional impairment. Long-term rehabilitation may be required, and recovery can take months to years. Mortality rates can be high if large areas are affected.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, sepsis, organ failure, and shock. Severe scarring and contractures can limit mobility, and psychological trauma such as PTSD may occur due to the severity of the injury.

Electrical burns

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Burns and Thermal Injuries

Sub-category: Special Burn Types

Symptoms:
burn marks on the skin; tingling or numbness; muscle contractions; cardiac arrhythmias; respiratory distress; burns on internal tissues

Root Cause:
The electrical current passes through the body, causing tissue damage due to the high heat generated, and can disrupt the normal electrical functioning of the heart and muscles.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves physical examination, assessment of burn severity, ECG to monitor cardiac function, and imaging if internal injuries are suspected.

Treatment:
Immediate treatment includes stabilizing airway, breathing, and circulation, cooling the burn, treating cardiac arrhythmias, and addressing any internal injuries. Pain management and wound care are critical.

Medications:
Analgesics (e.g., opioids or non-opioid pain relievers for pain control), antiarrhythmic drugs (such as lidocaine or amiodarone for cardiac arrhythmias), and antibiotics (to prevent infection in the burn wound).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Electrical burns are relatively rare compared to thermal burns, but they are particularly common in industrial settings and electrical accidents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Direct contact with high-voltage power sources, working in high-risk occupations (e.g., electrical workers), lack of safety precautions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Can range from mild to severe, depending on the voltage and extent of the burn; severe cases may result in long-term complications or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiac arrhythmias, respiratory failure, tissue necrosis, organ damage, and long-term neurological effects.

Chemical burns

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Burns and Thermal Injuries

Sub-category: Special Burn Types

Symptoms:
pain or burning sensation; redness or blisters on skin; swelling; chemical odor; nausea or vomiting; breathing difficulties (if inhaled)

Root Cause:
Contact with caustic or corrosive chemicals leads to tissue damage through chemical reactions, often affecting the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves a thorough history of exposure to chemicals, physical examination, and possible laboratory tests (e.g., blood work or eye examination if chemicals were in contact with eyes).

Treatment:
Immediate removal of the chemical, flushing the area with water, decontamination procedures, and treating the burn. Wound care, pain management, and sometimes specific antidotes or neutralizing agents.

Medications:
Pain relief with NSAIDs or opioids if necessary, topical antibiotics for prevention of infection, and corticosteroids for reducing inflammation if appropriate.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Chemical burns are not as common as thermal burns but are still significant in certain industries like manufacturing and laboratories.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to hazardous chemicals in industrial settings, poor safety practices, improper storage, and handling of chemicals.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the severity of exposure; prompt treatment leads to better outcomes, while severe burns can result in permanent scarring or organ damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, scarring, loss of function, organ damage (especially if inhaled), and in some cases, long-term disability.

Inhalation injuries (smoke inhalation)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Burns and Thermal Injuries

Sub-category: Special Burn Types

Symptoms:
coughing; difficulty breathing; wheezing; soot or carbon particles in the mouth or nose; hoarseness; chest pain; confusion or loss of consciousness

Root Cause:
Inhalation of smoke or toxic gases during a fire leads to damage to the respiratory tract, particularly the lungs and airways, and can also cause carbon monoxide poisoning.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, history of exposure, physical examination, pulse oximetry, and chest imaging (X-ray or CT scan). Blood tests for carbon monoxide levels are also used.

Treatment:
Immediate treatment includes oxygen therapy, airway management, nebulized medications to reduce inflammation, and sometimes mechanical ventilation for severe cases.

Medications:
Oxygen therapy (as the primary treatment), bronchodilators (such as albuterol ) for airway constriction, corticosteroids for inflammation, and in some cases, hyperbaric oxygen therapy for carbon monoxide poisoning.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in house fires or industrial accidents, though it often occurs alongside other burns and trauma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Proximity to fire or hazardous environments, lack of proper ventilation, smoking, and pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies widely depending on the severity of the injury and the promptness of treatment. With early intervention, many patients recover fully, but prolonged exposure can lead to permanent respiratory damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic respiratory issues (e.g., pulmonary fibrosis), airway obstruction, carbon monoxide poisoning, and in severe cases, death due to asphyxiation.

Partial or complete amputation of limbs or digits

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Burns and Thermal Injuries

Sub-category: Traumatic Amputations

Symptoms:
severe pain at the site of injury; bleeding; loss of function of the amputated body part; shock symptoms (e.g., pale skin, rapid breathing, weakness); emotional distress or trauma

Root Cause:
Loss of a limb or digit due to trauma, resulting in the destruction of blood vessels, nerves, muscles, and bones. Often caused by accidents, explosions, or severe burns.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination to assess the injury and loss of body part. Imaging tests (X-rays, CT scans) to check for bone fractures and damage to the surrounding tissue. Assessment of blood supply to determine if reattachment is feasible.

Treatment:
Immediate wound care to control bleeding (e.g., tourniquet application, hemostatic dressings). Surgery to remove damaged tissue or perform replantation of the amputated part (if possible). Pain management (e.g., analgesics, nerve blocks). Psychological support to address trauma. Rehabilitation and prosthetic fitting after healing.

Medications:
Pain relievers (Analgesics) such as opioids (morphine ) for acute pain management and NSAIDs (ibuprofen ) for inflammation. Antibiotics like cefazolin to prevent infection if there's open tissue. Tetanus immunization may be required if the injury is caused by a contaminated object.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
This type of injury is relatively rare but can occur in traumatic accidents or natural disasters. Approximately 2 million Americans live with limb loss, with traumatic amputations accounting for a significant proportion.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-risk occupations (e.g., construction, military). Traffic accidents. Exposure to explosions or industrial machinery. Severe burns.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the extent of the amputation, the speed of treatment, and the success of replantation if attempted. Individuals may require long-term rehabilitation.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection at the amputation site. Phantom limb pain. Psychological distress (e.g., depression, anxiety). Complications from replantation (e.g., graft rejection, insufficient blood supply). Permanent disability or loss of function depending on the location and severity of the amputation.

Prosthetic management and rehabilitation

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Burns and Thermal Injuries

Sub-category: Traumatic Amputations

Symptoms:
difficulty with mobility or using the prosthetic device; residual limb pain or discomfort; skin irritation or pressure sores from the prosthetic; psychological challenges (e.g., body image concerns, coping with disability)

Root Cause:
The need for artificial limb replacements after amputation to restore mobility, function, and appearance.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Evaluation of the residual limb to determine the suitability for prosthetic fitting. Functional assessment to identify the most appropriate prosthesis based on the patient’s needs and lifestyle.

Treatment:
Prosthetic fitting and adjustment to match the patient’s anatomical needs. Physical therapy to train patients to use the prosthetic effectively. Psychological counseling to support adjustment to life with a prosthetic. Ongoing prosthetic care and maintenance, including repairs and replacements as necessary.

Medications:
Pain relievers such as NSAIDs (ibuprofen ) for residual limb discomfort. Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications (e.g., sertraline , fluoxetine ) for psychological support. Topical treatments for skin irritation, such as corticosteroid creams or hydrocortisone .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 500,000 people in the United States use prosthetics, with millions more globally. Prosthetic management is essential for those who have experienced traumatic amputations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Traumatic amputation or limb loss due to accident, disease, or congenital malformations. Limited access to specialized care or rehabilitation services.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate rehabilitation and prosthetic management, many individuals can regain significant mobility and independence. The success of rehabilitation depends on factors such as age, mental health, and the level of amputation.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Difficulty in adjusting to the prosthesis, leading to limited use. Skin irritation, pressure sores, or infections from prolonged use of prosthetics. Mechanical failure of the prosthesis. Emotional or psychological challenges related to body image and loss of limb function.

Greenstick fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Pediatric Trauma

Sub-category: Common Pediatric Injuries

Symptoms:
pain; swelling; bruising; tenderness at the fracture site; limited range of motion

Root Cause:
A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture that occurs in the soft bones of children, where one side of the bone bends while the other side breaks, typically due to a bending force.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through physical examination and confirmed with X-rays to assess the bone's integrity and the extent of the fracture.

Treatment:
Treatment involves realigning the bone (if needed) and immobilizing it with a cast or splint. Severe cases may require surgery.

Medications:
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol ) or ibuprofen (Advil), which are both analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications, can be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Greenstick fractures are relatively common in children, with a higher incidence in those aged 5-10 due to the flexibility of their bones.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High activity levels, sports injuries, and falls; more common in children with brittle bone conditions like osteogenesis imperfecta.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally excellent, with full recovery expected in most cases after 4-6 weeks, though there may be some lingering discomfort.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Possible complications include improper healing or bone malalignment, which may require additional treatment or surgery.

Growth plate (physeal) fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Pediatric Trauma

Sub-category: Common Pediatric Injuries

Symptoms:
pain; swelling; decreased range of motion; bruising; deformity in severe cases

Root Cause:
Growth plate fractures occur when the bone is subjected to stress or trauma before it has fully matured, which can lead to damage at the area where the bone grows.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves a clinical exam and imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to assess the extent of the fracture and growth plate involvement.

Treatment:
Treatment depends on the severity of the fracture, ranging from immobilization with a cast to surgery in more complex cases to realign the bones and ensure proper growth.

Medications:
Analgesics such as acetaminophen (Tylenol ) or ibuprofen (Advil) may be prescribed to alleviate pain and inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Growth plate fractures account for about 15-30% of all pediatric fractures, with a peak incidence in the 10-16 year age group.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High activity levels, sports injuries, and trauma are common risk factors. Certain medical conditions like bone disease may also increase susceptibility.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good prognosis if treated early and appropriately. In severe cases, growth disturbances can occur if the growth plate is damaged significantly.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include growth disturbances, limb length discrepancies, and deformities.

Non-accidental trauma (child abuse-related injuries)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Pediatric Trauma

Sub-category: Common Pediatric Injuries

Symptoms:
unexplained bruises or burns; fractures in various healing stages; head injuries; abdominal pain; signs of neglect or poor hygiene

Root Cause:
Non-accidental trauma is caused by intentional harm or injury inflicted upon a child, often by a caregiver or family member.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves a careful history, physical examination, and imaging studies. Suspicion of non-accidental trauma leads to a multidisciplinary team assessment, including social work, radiology, and sometimes forensic evaluation.

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on immediate medical care for injuries, followed by ensuring the child’s safety and providing support to address the emotional and psychological consequences of abuse. Involves coordination with child protection services.

Medications:
Pain management with analgesics such as acetaminophen (Tylenol ) or ibuprofen (Advil) for physical injuries. Psychiatric medications may be used to treat anxiety, depression, or PTSD related to trauma.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1 in 4 children will experience some form of abuse before the age of 18, and it is responsible for a significant proportion of pediatric injury hospitalizations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Factors such as domestic violence, substance abuse, mental illness in caregivers, and poverty increase the risk of non-accidental trauma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis varies depending on the severity of the injuries and the timing of intervention. Immediate medical and psychological support can improve long-term outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Long-term physical and psychological consequences such as developmental delays, emotional trauma, and physical disabilities are possible. In extreme cases, abuse can lead to death.

Subdural hematomas from falls

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Geriatric Trauma

Sub-category: Common Geriatric Injuries

Symptoms:
headache; nausea and vomiting; confusion or altered mental status; seizures; weakness or numbness in limbs

Root Cause:
Subdural hematomas occur when blood vessels between the brain and the dura mater (the outermost layer of the brain) are torn, typically due to a head injury from a fall. In the elderly, the brain may shrink, increasing the risk of bleeding.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through imaging studies such as CT scans or MRIs of the brain to visualize the location and size of the hematoma.

Treatment:
Treatment often involves surgical intervention to drain the hematoma if it is large or causing significant pressure on the brain. Conservative management may include monitoring and medications to reduce swelling and control symptoms.

Medications:
Medications can include anticonvulsants (e.g., levetiracetam ) to prevent seizures, pain medications (opioids for severe pain), and corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone ) to reduce brain swelling. Anticonvulsants are classified as antiepileptic drugs, opioids are narcotic analgesics, and corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory drugs.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Subdural hematomas are common among elderly individuals who experience falls, with an estimated 10-30% of older adults with a head injury developing a subdural hematoma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include advanced age, use of anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs, history of alcohol use, and prior brain injuries. A higher frequency of falls in the elderly also increases the risk.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the severity and size of the hematoma, as well as the speed of intervention. With prompt treatment, many individuals can recover, but severe cases can result in permanent neurological deficits or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include long-term cognitive impairments, neurological deficits, seizures, and in some cases, death.

Hypovolemic shock

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Other Trauma-Related Conditions

Sub-category: Complications of Trauma

Symptoms:
rapid heart rate; low blood pressure; weak pulse; pale, cool, clammy skin; rapid, shallow breathing; dizziness; confusion; thirst

Root Cause:
A significant loss of blood or body fluids leading to inadequate blood volume, causing insufficient oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues and organs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical signs, symptoms, and a history of trauma or fluid loss. It is confirmed by blood tests (e.g., hemoglobin levels, electrolytes) and physical exams. Imaging may be used to identify the source of fluid loss.

Treatment:
The primary treatment is to restore blood volume through intravenous fluids (normal saline or lactated Ringer's solution) and blood transfusions if necessary. Identifying and treating the underlying cause of fluid loss is crucial.

Medications:
Medications may include vasopressors (e.g., norepinephrine , phenylephrine ) to raise blood pressure and antibiotics if infection is the cause. Vasopressors are sympathomimetic drugs that increase vascular tone and blood pressure.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
It is a medical emergency that can occur in any age group. The exact prevalence varies based on the population and the underlying causes, but it is commonly seen in trauma patients.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Major trauma (e.g., accidents, burns), gastrointestinal bleeding, surgery, dehydration, severe burns, and certain medical conditions like aneurysms or ruptured organs.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the cause, timing of treatment, and overall health of the patient. Early intervention with fluid resuscitation significantly improves outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Organ failure (kidneys, liver), electrolyte imbalances, acidosis, and, if untreated, death due to shock.

Septic shock

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Other Trauma-Related Conditions

Sub-category: Complications of Trauma

Symptoms:
fever or hypothermia; tachycardia; low blood pressure; confusion; rapid breathing; warm or cold extremities; decreased urine output; chills

Root Cause:
Severe infection leading to widespread inflammation, blood vessel dilation, and impaired blood flow, resulting in low blood pressure and organ dysfunction.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves clinical symptoms of sepsis, blood cultures, imaging to identify the source of infection, and laboratory tests (e.g., white blood cell count, lactate levels).

Treatment:
Early antibiotic therapy, intravenous fluids to maintain blood pressure, vasopressors (e.g., norepinephrine), and supportive care for organ function.

Medications:
Antibiotics (e.g., broad-spectrum agents like meropenem , piperacillin-tazobactam), vasopressors (e.g., norepinephrine , dopamine), and corticosteroids in some cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Septic shock occurs in approximately 10-15% of patients with severe sepsis.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunocompromised patients, recent surgery, chronic illnesses like diabetes or liver disease, invasive devices, older age.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis can be improved with early diagnosis and treatment, but the risk of death is high without timely intervention. Mortality rate can be as high as 30-50%.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Organ failure (kidneys, lungs, liver), disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), prolonged hospitalization, and multi-organ failure.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Other Trauma-Related Conditions

Sub-category: Psychological Trauma

Symptoms:
flashbacks; nightmares; severe anxiety; hypervigilance; irritability; avoidance of reminders; emotional numbness

Root Cause:
PTSD is caused by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event that disrupts normal psychological functioning. It involves the brain's inability to process and cope with the event, leading to persistent stress responses.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made based on clinical assessment and criteria set by the DSM-5, which include exposure to a traumatic event and symptoms lasting more than a month, impacting daily functioning.

Treatment:
Treatment typically involves psychotherapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy) and medications such as antidepressants. In some cases, trauma-focused therapies such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) are used.

Medications:
Common medications prescribed include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline (Zoloft) and paroxetine (Paxil), which are antidepressants that help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Other medications may include serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like venlafaxine (Effexor ) and sleep aids like prazosin (Minipress ) to reduce nightmares.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
PTSD affects approximately 7-8% of the population at some point in their lives. It is more common in people who have experienced combat, sexual assault, or other life-threatening situations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Factors that increase the risk include a history of trauma, pre-existing mental health conditions, family history of PTSD or mental illness, and lack of social support after the traumatic event.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
PTSD can be effectively managed with treatment, though some individuals may experience long-term symptoms. The prognosis varies based on the severity of symptoms, the individual's support system, and access to care.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Untreated PTSD can lead to complications such as depression, substance abuse, self-harm, relationship difficulties, and an increased risk of suicidal behavior.

Acute stress disorder

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Other Trauma-Related Conditions

Sub-category: Psychological Trauma

Symptoms:
intrusive memories of the trauma; avoidance of reminders; negative mood or thoughts; hyperarousal; dissociation; sleep disturbances; irritability

Root Cause:
Acute stress disorder occurs after experiencing a traumatic event. It is the body's immediate psychological response, which, if unresolved, can develop into PTSD. The trauma causes overwhelming stress that impacts normal cognitive and emotional functioning.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made based on clinical evaluation and DSM-5 criteria, which include symptoms occurring within three days to one month after a traumatic event. These symptoms must cause significant distress or functional impairment.

Treatment:
Treatment involves trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and sometimes medications like SSRIs to manage anxiety and depression. Early intervention is critical in preventing the progression to PTSD.

Medications:
SSRIs such as sertraline (Zoloft) and fluoxetine (Prozac) may be prescribed to manage anxiety and depressive symptoms. In some cases, benzodiazepines like lorazepam (Ativan) are used in the short term to manage acute anxiety, although these are generally avoided due to the risk of dependence.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Acute stress disorder occurs in approximately 10-20% of individuals who have experienced a traumatic event.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include previous trauma history, lack of social support, pre-existing mental health conditions, and severity of the trauma experienced.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis is generally positive with timely and appropriate treatment, but if left untreated, the disorder may develop into PTSD.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include the development of PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse. There can also be significant impairment in social, occupational, and personal functioning if not addressed.

Post-injury functional limitations

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Other Trauma-Related Conditions

Sub-category: Rehabilitation Needs

Symptoms:
reduced mobility; pain during movement; weakness in affected areas; difficulty performing daily activities; decreased endurance; limited range of motion

Root Cause:
Injury or trauma leading to damage in muscles, ligaments, tendons, or bones, which affects the ability to perform normal physical activities.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on physical exams, imaging tests (such as X-rays or MRIs), and assessment of functional capabilities. A rehabilitation or physical therapy assessment may also be performed.

Treatment:
The treatment focuses on physical therapy, rest, and sometimes surgery or medication for pain relief. Gradual rehabilitation is used to restore strength and function.

Medications:
Medications may include pain relievers such as NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen or naproxen ), or stronger prescription pain relievers (e.g., opioids) in the short term. Muscle relaxants (e.g., cyclobenzaprine ) or corticosteroid injections may also be prescribed to reduce inflammation. These are classified as analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Post-injury functional limitations are common after significant injuries, especially in older adults and those with traumatic injuries or fractures. It affects a wide range of people, but exact prevalence varies based on the type of injury and age group.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Severity of injury, age, pre-existing conditions (e.g., arthritis, osteoporosis), and the nature of the trauma (e.g., falls, motor vehicle accidents).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper treatment and rehabilitation, many individuals recover function over time, though some may experience chronic limitations or pain.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pain, loss of mobility, muscle atrophy, joint stiffness, and potential psychological impacts like depression or anxiety due to decreased quality of life.

Physical therapy for recovery

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Other Trauma-Related Conditions

Sub-category: Rehabilitation Needs

Symptoms:
pain; limited mobility; stiffness; weakness; fatigue; reduced strength or endurance; muscle imbalances

Root Cause:
Injuries or surgical procedures can cause a breakdown in the normal functioning of muscles, joints, and tissues, leading to dysfunction and difficulty in movement.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves physical exams and assessment of movement and strength. Imaging may also be used to understand the extent of injury or surgery.

Treatment:
Treatment consists of personalized physical therapy programs designed to strengthen muscles, improve joint mobility, and relieve pain through exercises, manual therapy, and possibly electrical stimulation or heat/cold therapy.

Medications:
Medications typically prescribed during recovery include NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ) for pain and inflammation, muscle relaxants (e.g., cyclobenzaprine ), and in some cases, corticosteroid injections. These are classified as analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Physical therapy is a common treatment used for recovery from musculoskeletal injuries, surgery, or chronic conditions, but exact prevalence depends on the specific injury and demographic factors.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, pre-existing musculoskeletal conditions, severity of injury, and lack of early intervention or appropriate rehabilitation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most people experience significant improvement with physical therapy, but the rate of recovery varies. Some may continue to experience residual effects, especially if therapy is delayed or insufficient.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include muscle strain, overuse injuries from improper technique, incomplete recovery leading to permanent disability, or psychological distress due to slow recovery.