Following a tibial fracture closed reduction, what is the most appropriate action for a patient experiencing unrelieved pain and inability to move their toes?

In the case of a patient experiencing unrelieved pain and an inability to move their toes following a closed reduction of a tibial fracture, the most appropriate action is to bivalve the cast. Bivalving refers to the process of cutting the cast in half longitudinally to relieve pressure. This step is crucial when there are signs that could indicate complications such as compartment syndrome, which can present with severe pain and loss of function distal to the fracture site.

When a cast is applied, it can sometimes be too tight or can cause swelling that leads to an increase in pressure within the muscle compartment—this can compromise blood flow and nerve function, resulting in pain and decreased mobility. Bivalving the cast can allow for adequate space for swelling and may alleviate the symptoms the patient is experiencing.

While elevating the leg can help reduce swelling and encourage blood flow, it may not address the immediate issue of excessive cast pressure. Encouraging ambulation is typically inappropriate in this situation, as the patient is already experiencing significant pain and has limited toe movement, which suggests that activities could exacerbate their condition. Placing the patient on a PCA (patient-controlled analgesia) pump may help manage pain, but it does not resolve the underlying issue of potential complications