A fracture, commonly known as a broken bone, occurs when there is a partial or complete break in the continuity of a bone. Fractures can result from a variety of causes, including trauma, falls, sports injuries, motor vehicle accidents, and osteoporosis. Here are some key points about fractures:

 

  1. Types of Fractures: Fractures can vary in severity and location, and they are classified based on several factors, including the nature of the break, the alignment of the bone fragments, and whether the skin is broken (open or compound fracture) or intact (closed fracture). Common types of fractures include:

    • Simple (closed) fracture: The bone is broken but does not pierce the skin.
    • Compound (open) fracture: The broken bone pierces through the skin, increasing the risk of infection.
    • Transverse fracture: The break is perpendicular to the long axis of the bone.
    • Comminuted fracture: The bone shatters into multiple fragments.
    • Greenstick fracture: The bone is partially bent and partially broken, like a green twig.

  2. Signs and Symptoms: Symptoms of a fracture may include pain, swelling, bruising, deformity, inability to bear weight or use the affected limb, and limited range of motion. In some cases, there may be an audible or palpable “crack” or “snap” at the time of injury.

  3. Diagnosis: Fractures are diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, physical examination, and imaging studies, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans. These tests help determine the location, type, and severity of the fracture and guide treatment decisions.

  4. Treatment: Treatment of fractures aims to restore the normal alignment and function of the injured bone and promote healing. Depending on the type and severity of the fracture, treatment options may include:

    • Immobilization: Casting, splinting, or bracing may be used to stabilize the fracture and prevent movement while it heals.
    • Reduction: In cases of displaced fractures, the bone fragments may need to be realigned (reduced) manually or surgically to restore proper alignment.
    • Surgery: Surgical intervention may be necessary for complex fractures, open fractures, or fractures that do not heal properly with nonsurgical methods. Surgical procedures may involve internal fixation (e.g., plates, screws, rods) or external fixation (e.g., pins, wires, external frames).
    • Rehabilitation: Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises may be prescribed to restore strength, flexibility, and function to the affected limb after the fracture has healed.

  5. Complications: Complications of fractures may include delayed healing, malunion (improper alignment of the bone), nonunion (failure of the bone to heal), infection, nerve or blood vessel damage, compartment syndrome (increased pressure within the muscles), and post-traumatic arthritis.

  6. Prevention: Measures to prevent fractures include practicing safety precautions, such as wearing protective gear during sports activities, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and balanced nutrition to promote bone health, and taking steps to prevent falls, particularly in older adults.