Journal of plastic, reconstructive & aesthetic surgery : JPRAS
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J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg · Dec 2014
ReviewPretibial lacerations: experience from a lower limb trauma centre and systematic review.
Pretibial lacerations are an important and neglected problem among the elderly. Poor management leads to prolonged hospitalisation and terminal decline. This study summarises our experience and evidence from the literature to ascertain an evidence-based rationale for referral and management. ⋯ Admissions expose the elderly to physical/functional decline and death. Our findings support a change of practice, minimising admissions for minor (Dunkin type I/II) injuries and rapid, protocol-driven surgical intervention and discharge for Dunkin type III/IV injuries with avoidance of negative pressure wound therapy in all but selected cases.