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Low-velocity knee dislocation in the morbidly obese
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA. foltjr@gmail.com
The American Journal of Emergency Medicine
|February 7, 2012
Summary
Morbidly obese patients can suffer knee dislocations from minor falls, leading to severe popliteal artery injury. Emergency physicians must suspect knee dislocations in obese individuals, even with minimal trauma.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Trauma Surgery
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Knee dislocations are uncommon, usually resulting from high-energy trauma.
- Obesity is an increasing public health concern, impacting various medical conditions.
Observation:
- Two morbidly obese patients experienced complete knee dislocations after falls from standing height.
- Both patients sustained significant morbidity due to associated popliteal artery injuries.
Findings:
- Falls from standing height can cause knee dislocations in morbidly obese individuals.
- Popliteal artery injury is a critical complication of knee dislocations in this population.
Implications:
- Emergency physicians should consider knee dislocations in obese patients presenting after minor trauma.
- Early recognition and management of knee dislocations and vascular injuries are crucial for preventing severe morbidity in obese patients.
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