Transient peroneal nerve palsies from injuries placed in traction splints

Two patients thought to have distal femur fractures presented to the emerge ncy department (ED) of a level 1 trauma center with traction splints applie d to their lower extremities. Both patients had varying degrees of peroneal nerve palsies, Neither patient sustained a fracture, but both had a latera l collateral ligament injury and one an associated anterior cruciate ligame nt tear. One patient had a sensory and motor block, while the other had los s of sensation on the dorsum of his foot. After removal of the traction spl int both regained peroneal nerve function within 6 hours. Although assessme nt of ligamentous knee injuries are not a priority in the trauma setting, c linicians should be aware of this possible complication in a patient with a lateral soft tissue injury to the knee who is placed in a traction splint that is not indicated for immobilization of this type of injury. Copyright (C) 1999 by W.B. Saunders Company.