Surgical Management of Open Fractures: The Right Time to Operate

Abstract

The objective of this article was to determine the appropriate time between open fracture and treatment with antibiotics and surgical debridement. This clinical review will address the well-debated question: what is the urgency for surgical management in open fractures? The review will also address the parameters to best minimize infection rates. The review will look at the best antimicrobials needed for an open fracture. The overall goal of this clinical review was to allow physician assistants working in settings who require open fracture triage and management to understand the time constraint to deliver the best treatment for patients. The review also looks to address potential complications for patients with open fractures even when management is up to date with the standard of care. This is important because the debate continues among facilities, even among services within the same facility, about how soon an open fracture needs to be addressed.