OUCH I BROKE A BONE!!!

BY: MARGUERITE SMITH

3 Types of Bone Fractures

Transverse Fracture

This is a fracture in which the break is across the bone, at a right angle to the long axis of the bone.

Usually results from a direct blow (ex. Karate chop)

The bone may or may not line up correctly.

Treatment of the fracture may involve open or closed reduction.

In open reduction, doctors must surgically put the bone back in place using pins to secure the bone in place.

A cast is also used after the bone is put into place as well.

Transverse cont.

Healing times may vary.

Several months of recuperation may also be required.

Nerve damage may also be a result of this types of fracture.

Comminuted Fracture

Also known as multi-fragmentary fractures.

Occurs if the bone is crushed or splintered.

These types of fractures are most common in elderly people.

Comminuted cont.

These types of fractures are easily diagnosed with X-rays

Complications of comminuted fractures can include infection, compartment syndrome, vascular necrosis, and nonunion, in which the pieces of bone fail to join together.

Usually someone with a comminuted fracture will need to attend several follow up appointments at the office of an orthopedic doctor to confirm that the fracture has been set properly, and that it is healing appropriately.

Compound Fracture

An open fracture, also called a compound fracture, is an injury that occurs when there is a break in the skin around a broken bone.

In order for an injury to be classified as a compound fracture, the outside air (and dirt and bacteria) must be able to get to the fracture site without a barrier of skin or soft-tissue.

Compound cont.

These fractures are generally treated with surgery to clean the site of injury, as well as to stabilize the fracture.

One thing is for sure, I don’t want neither of these!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!