A broken bone, known as a bone fracture, is a common injury. Since the human body has over 200 limbs, there are many types and forms of fractures. Hence, the fracture treatment and recovery will depend on which bone(s) broke and how.
Dr. Sandeep Singh is an orthopedic, knee and hip surgeon in Bhubaneshwar. As one of the leading orthopedic doctor in Bhubaneswar, Dr. Sandeep exceeds in providing the best fracture treatment in Bhubaneswar.
This blog gives information about types of fractures and fracture treatment.
Let’s discuss
The Different Types of Fractures
1. Open fracture
An open fracture is the one in which a fractured bone has broken through the skin. Occasionally, the bone can be seen through the injury. Open fractures may become contaminated and require immediate surgical cleaning and treatment.
2. Closed fracture
Closed fractures do not pierce the skin and do not pose the same infection risk as open fractures. Usually, orthopedists don't consider closed fractures as emergencies, but they need to be treated right away.
Fracture blisters may develop due to the damage caused by these fractures to the surrounding soft tissue. If not treated, a fracture blister will develop within two days of the injury.
3. Displaced fracture
A broken bone causes a displaced fracture that has shifted so far out of position that the two ends are no longer aligned. This makes it more difficult to heal the injury with immobilization alone, necessitating surgery.
Now, let's know,
The Subcategories of Fractures
In addition, broken bones are further categorized by other measures to open, closed, and displaced fractures. These include:
1. Greenstick fractures:
Greenstick fractures are common in children and characterize bones that have bent but are not entirely broken.
2. Comminuted fracture:
A fracture in which three or more bone parts break apart.
3. Pathologic fracture:
A pathologic fracture is often caused by a bone-weakening condition, such as osteoporosis.
4. Stress fracture:
A minor hairline fracture that is difficult to see on an X-ray.
5. Transverse fracture:
The long section (shaft) of the bone is fractured horizontally.
What causes fractures?
A fracture occurs when a bone is exposed to more significant strain or force than it can handle. The magnitude of the fracture is determined by the force's intensity, which may be either very intense or very sudden. Fractures can be caused by various factors such as:
- Fall
- Direct blow to the body
- Traumatic events such as car or bike accident
- Sports-related injuries
How are fractures diagnosed?
- If the patient has an injury or trauma, they should seek medical care as soon as possible.
- An orthopedic doctor will ask the patient about their complaints and examine the affected region during the appointment.
- To check for discomfort or other injury symptoms, the doctor may ask the patient to move the area in specific ways.
- If one of the best orthopedic doctors in Bhubaneswar suspects a fracture, X-rays will be ordered.
- An X-ray of the bones shows any breaks or other damages. It may also assist in determining the form and location of a fracture.
- The doctor may request the patient to undergo an MRI or CT scan to examine the bones or surrounding tissues.
What is the treatment for a fracture?
- If the patient has a fracture, they may need urgent medical attention. The fracture treatment is determined by the form and location of the fracture.
- When you visit one of the best ortho doctors in Bhubaneswar, they will concentrate on repositioning and stabilizing the broken bone. During the healing time, it is essential to keep the bone immobilized.
- During the healing process, new bone may develop along the edges of the damaged pieces. If the fragments are correctly positioned and preserved, the new bone will eventually connect them.
What are the different options for fracture care?
1. Cast
A seasoned orthopedic doctor in Bhubaneswar may apply a cast to help support the broken bone. A plaster or fibreglass cast will help stabilize the injured area and prevent the shifting of fractured bone fragments from their position as they heal.
2. Traction
In extreme cases, traction can be needed to stabilize the injured area. It stretches the tendons and muscles that encircle the bone.
One of the best ortho doctors in Bhubaneswar will give the patient traction by using a set of pulleys and weights. The doctor uses this device to stabilize the wounded area by a gentle pulling motion.
3. Surgery
The patient may need surgery for more complex fractures. The doctor can use open reduction, internal fixation, or external fixation to prevent the bones from shifting.
A. Open reduction and internal fixation
An experienced orthopedic surgeon in Bhubaneswar will first realign or adjust the broken bone fragments into their normal orientation in open reduction and internal fixation. The surgeon will then fix the fractured bone with pins, metal plates, or both. They may also implant rods through the bone's centre.
B. External fixation
One of the best ortho doctors in Bhubaneswar will inject pins or screws into the bone above and below the fracture site during external fixation.
These pins or screws will be connected to a metal stabilizing bar located on the outside of the skin. As the bone heals, the bar will keep it in position.
An orthopedic doctor will also prescribe medications to relieve pain and manage infection or other symptoms or side effects.
After the initial treatment, the doctor may advise physical therapy or other interventions to help the patient resume daily activities.
To seek medical care for fractures, consult one of the best orthopedic doctors in Bhubaneshwar for effective treatment and recovery.
