Final answer:
Open fractures can have serious complications, including infection, delayed or nonunion, nerve damage, vascular injury, and compartment syndrome.
Step-by-step explanation:
Complications associated with open fractures can be serious and potentially life-threatening. Here are five other open fracture complications:
- Infection: Open fractures have a higher risk of infection due to exposure of the bone to the external environment. Bacteria can enter through the open wound and cause infection.
- Delayed or Nonunion: Open fractures can disrupt the normal healing process, leading to delayed or nonunion, where the fractured bone fails to properly heal or fuse together.
- Nerve Damage: The trauma from an open fracture can damage the surrounding nerves, resulting in numbness, weakness, or loss of sensation in the affected area.
- Vascular Injury: In some cases, open fractures can damage blood vessels, leading to impaired blood flow to the affected area and potential tissue death.
- Compartment Syndrome: This occurs when swelling causes increased pressure within a closed compartment, leading to decreased blood flow and potential nerve and tissue damage.