Final answer:
Using a fracture table when addressing hip fractures, particularly in elderly patients, can lead to complications such as blood clots, pneumonia, pressure sores, urinary tract infections, and in severe cases like femur fractures, potentially fatal respiratory distress.
Step-by-step explanation:
The complications associated with the use of a fracture table when putting down a nail for hip fractures can be significant, especially for elderly patients. One of the primary complications is the risk of causing additional conditions due to the immobility required during the healing period. These include the formation of blood clots, which can lead to respiratory failure; pneumonia due to poor air exchange pressure sores that may invite infections; and urinary tract infections from prolonged catheterization.
Furthermore when treating a fractured diaphysis of the femur, there is a risk of releasing fat globules into the bloodstream during the procedure. These fat globules can cause a life-threatening condition if they become lodged in the lung capillaries leading to respiratory distress and potential death if not quickly addressed. It's crucial to understand that while a fracture table provides stability during surgical procedures, the risks of complications must be carefully weighed against the benefits.