Trauma

What is a fracture?

A fracture is a medical condition in which a bone is cracked or broken. It is a break in the continuity of the bone.

The word “fracture” refers to broken bone. A bone may become fractured completely or partially.

While many fractures are the result of high force impact or stress, bone fracture can also occur because of certain medical conditions that weaken the bones, such as osteoporosis.

How do fractures occur?

Bone Fracturing can affect anyone that experiences trauma. Common causes of trauma are due to:

Falls,
Motor vehicle accident, or
Sports.

Types of fractures

Various types of fractures include:

Simple fractures in which the fractured pieces of bone are well aligned and stable.
Unstable fractures are those in which fragments of the broken bone are misaligned and displaced.
Open (compound) fractures are severe fractures in which the broken bones cut through the skin. This type of fracture is more prone to infection and requires immediate medical attention.
Greenstick fractures: This is a unique fracture in children that involves bending of one side of the bone without any break in the bone.

How is a fracture diagnosed?

The diagnosis for a fracture is made by taking a complete history and performing a complete physical examination.

Additionally, the doctor may employ one or more of the following imaging methods to confirm or rule out any differential diagnosis that causes similar pain.

These procedures may include:

X-Rays, lateral and external oblique views
Computerized Topographic (CT) scan of the affected area
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Ultrasound of the affected area

After a clear diagnosis if obtained suitable treatment can follow.

Non-operative fracture treatment

Non-operative (closed) therapy comprises of casting and traction (skin and skeletal traction).

Casting - closed reduction is carried out for any fracture that is displaced, shortened, or angulated. Splints and casts made up of fibreglass or plaster of paris material are used to immobilize the limb.

Surgical therapy

Surgery may be required in the treatment of some fractures. This surgery can involve:

Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) - This is a surgical procedure in which the fracture site is adequately exposed and reduction of fracture is done. Internal fixation is carried out with equipment such as wires, plates and screws, and intramedullary nails.
External Fixation - External fixation is a procedure in which the fracture stabilization is done at a distance from the site of fracture. It helps to maintain bone length and alignment without casting.