Overview of Bone Fractures

1. Classification of Fractures

Closed Fracture: A fracture that does not involve a break in the skin, and therefore poses no risk of infection.
Open Fracture: A fracture that involves a break in the skin, which increases the risk of infection.

Greenstick Fracture: The bone bends but does not break completely. This type of fracture is common in children due to their flexible bones.
Fissure Fracture: A partial break in the bone, affecting only a portion of the bone’s outer layer (cortex). This is also more common in children due to their weaker bones.
Torus Fracture: The bone bulges outward at the fracture site due to pressure. This is also prevalent in children due to their growing bones.

Comminuted Fracture: The bone breaks into multiple fragments.
Spiral Fracture: The bone breaks due to a twisting force, resulting in a spiral-shaped fracture line.
Transverse Fracture: The fracture line runs perpendicular to the bone’s long axis.
Oblique Fracture: The fracture line runs diagonally across the bone.
Avulsion Fracture: A small fragment of bone is pulled away from the main bone by a tendon or ligament.

Bending Mechanism: The bone is bent beyond its capacity, leading to a fracture on the concave side (compressed side) of the bone.
Tensile Fracture: The side of the bone that is stretched (tension side) breaks, resulting in a greenstick fracture.

Displacement: Refers to the movement of the fractured bone fragment away from its original position.
Vertical Displacement: The fractured bone fragment moves along the length of the bone.
Horizontal Displacement: The fractured bone fragment moves across the width of the bone.
Rotational Displacement: The fractured bone fragment twists around its axis.

Deformity: The fractured area appears abnormal compared to the opposite side.
Abnormal Movement: Movement at the fracture site causes pain or is impossible.
Crepitus: A grating sound heard when moving the fractured area.

Fractures are serious injuries and require timely and appropriate management.
If you suspect a fracture, seek immediate medical attention at the nearest healthcare facility.
Do not attempt to reposition or bandage a fracture yourself, as this can cause further damage.

Reduction and Immobilization (Casting): Applied to fractures without displacement or with minimal displacement.
Surgery: Used for complex fractures, open fractures, or those with significant displacement. Surgical procedures may involve internal fixation (plates, screws) or external fixation (pins, rods).

Infection: A major risk with open fractures.
Avascular Necrosis: The bone dies due to insufficient blood supply.
Thromboembolism: Blood clots form in the blood vessels near the fracture site, blocking blood flow.
Joint Stiffness: Improper healing of the fracture can lead to limited joint movement.

Physical Therapy: Exercises to restore joint and muscle function.
Avoidance of Strenuous Activities: Limiting heavy activity during the initial healing phase.

Avoiding Hazardous Activities: Reducing participation in activities with high risk of fractures.
Strengthening Bones: Consuming a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
Protective Equipment: Wearing appropriate protective gear during sports or other activities.

Note: This information is for general knowledge purposes only and does not substitute the advice of a medical professional.