Sneakylong
yes, whenever the bone breaks the skin ( compound #)this is a concern. I am sure the docs have irrigated the wound well and have him hopped up on an antibiotic drip.
In addition to compound fractures, his injuries were described as being comminuted at the proximal and distal ends of the tibia ,which means the tibia broke into several pieces at the top and bottom. This makes the fractures more problematic because the tibia is the main weight bearing bone in the lower extremity and articulates with the distal femur at the knee joint and the foot at the ankle. Surgery needs to ensure that all the pieces go back in place and are set in place without compromising the length of the tibia which would mean one leg could be shorter than the other, not a big deal to most but a big deal for a pro golfer with a history of back injuries even 1/2 inch could be problematic. Although i am sure golf is the furthest thing from Tiger's mind right now.
The fractures to the ankle and foot bones can also be an issue, over 25 bones and more than that in joints making arthritis and complications a concern.
these types of injuries are common in falls from heights or skydiving
here are two pics of compound comminuted fractures, one upper tibia and fibula, one lower. Tiger has both in the same leg.
