COMPLICATIONS IN ORTHOPEDIC TRAUMA: CLASSIFICATION, EARLY DIAGNOSIS, AND CURRENT THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES

Abstract

Orthopedic trauma represents one of the main causes of morbidity and functional disability worldwide, frequently associated with traffic accidents, falls, urban violence, and sports injuries. Although advances in surgical techniques, intensive care support, and trauma care protocols have significantly reduced mortality, complications arising from musculoskeletal injuries remain a major clinical challenge. These complications can occur at different stages of trauma evolution and include infection, compartment syndrome, venous thromboembolism, pseudoarthrosis, malunion, osteomyelitis, and fat embolism syndrome. Early recognition of these conditions is fundamental to reducing permanent functional sequelae and improving patient prognosis. This article reviews the main complications associated with orthopedic trauma, addressing their classification, pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic strategies, and currently recommended therapeutic approaches.