Passive Movement Of Toes in Surgery — 35yo Man | Trauma Surgery | SMLE Q#5633
SMLE Question #5633
Surgery
Trauma Surgery
Objective: OBJ-TRM-AIRWAY-01
Last updated: January 2026
A 35-year-old man presents to the emergency department 2 hours after his right foot was crushed under a heavy metal beam at work. He reports excruciating, worsening pain out of proportion to examination and severe pain with passive movement of the toes. The foot appears pale and cool compared with the contralateral side, and capillary refill is delayed. Dorsalis pedis and posterior tibial pulses are faintly palpable. Vital signs: T: 37.0 °C, BP: 132/78 mmHg, HR: 104/min, RR: 18/min, SpO2: 99% (RA). What is the most appropriate next step in management?
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