Browse categories and answer follow-up questions to refine your symptom profile.
Immediate threats and red flags
Time-critical threats
If knee dislocation suspected
Immediate reduction if gross deformity and neurovascular compromise
Distal pulses
ABI threshold 0.9 for vascular imaging pathway
If hard vascular signs
Absent distal pulses
Expanding hematoma
Active hemorrhage
Immediate vascular surgery and CT angiography
If compartment syndrome concern
Pain out of proportion
Pain with passive stretch
Paresthesia
Emergent orthopedic evaluation
If open fracture or open joint
Tetanus status
IV antibiotics
Emergent orthopedic evaluation
If septic arthritis concern
Fever
Immunocompromise
Marked pain with minimal ROM
Arthrocentesis pathway
Initial stabilization and analgesia
Early stabilization priorities
Pain control strategy
Oral analgesia first line when tolerating PO
Avoid excessive sedation that limits serial neurovascular exams
Temporary immobilization decision
Locked knee or gross instability then immobilizer
Otherwise hinged brace with early ROM preference
Weight bearing status
Crutches for antalgic gait
Non weight bearing if fracture suspected or severe instability
Key decision points
Core decisions
Imaging need
Ottawa Knee Rule pathway for radiographs
MRI timing based on function and red flags
Consultation need
Urgent orthopedic consult triggers
Vascular consult triggers for dislocation pathway
Disposition suitability
Safe discharge criteria
Admission or transfer criteria
SymptomDx is an educational tool for medical professionals. It does not replace clinical judgment. Verify all clinical data and drug dosages with authoritative sources.