Perineal injuries in patients with complex femoral fractures operated on a fracture table using traction and counter traction: A case series and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION: PA fracture table with a perineal post for counter traction is frequently used in the surgical treatment of lower limb fractures. Nevertheless, persistent use of the perineal post has been linked to serious side effects. We discuss our experience treating genitoperineal wounds due to traction table. METHODS: During a month, our facility treated 3 patients who had genitoperineal injuries related to the usage of a traction table. We assessed the clinical appearance of these perineal injuries, the length of the operation, the treatment strategy, the clinical results, and the length of the hospital stay. RESULT: After surgery, partial thickness necrosis in the region including the scrotum and perineum developed in all patients. Two patients who had necrotic tissue infections received surgical debridement. In all cases, the wound healed fully with secondary intention by continued cleaning, dressing, and appropriate antibiotics. CONCLUSION: Genitoperineal skin necrosis caused by a perineal traction post necessitates surgical debridement and prolongs hospitalization. Orthopaedic surgeons should utilize several techniques such as proper perineal post diameter, length of surgery, positioning of the limb during surgery, etc. to lower the likelihood of this problem.