Fracture Treatment: When Do You Need Surgery?
Fractures may occur from a fall, accident, sports injury, or direct blow. It can lead to pain, swelling, bruising and loss of motion in the affected area.
But not all fractures require surgery. Treatment of fracture depends on the bone, type of fracture, alignment of the fracture and overall injury.
Knowing your treatment options can help you make choices about your treatment.
What Is a Fracture?
A fracture occurs when a bone cracks or breaks in some way. Some fractures are stable; others cause the bone to move out of position.
Fractures can also be of varying severity. Other injuries may result in one fracture, or a multiple fracture.
An open fracture may perforate the skin. This type of injury must be addressed immediately as there is risk of infection.
What Causes Bone Fractures?
There are several situations that can lead to fractures. Common causes include:
- Falls and road accidents
- Sports injuries
- Direct blows
- Repetitive stress
- Bones that are weak due to osteoporosis.
As such, anyone can fracture a bone, no matter what their age or level of activity.
What Are the Common Symptoms?
Sudden pain around the area of the fracture may occur with a fracture. Another symptom that you can notice is swelling, bruising or tenderness.
Some fractures may alter a limb’s shape. Others might make it difficult to get around.
But a fracture cannot be confirmed by symptoms. A medical assessment can make a correct diagnosis.
How Are Fractures Diagnosed?
The injured area is first examined by an orthopaedic specialist. They might inquire about the cause of the injury and determine your symptoms.
X-rays are taken often to verify fractures. X-rays may also be useful for determining the location and alignment of the fracture.
Sometimes, your doctor will suggest more tests that use pictures. It is up to the discretion of the injury and suspected damage.
For reliable information about diagnosis and treatment, read this guide on fracture treatment and recovery.
Is it possible to heal fracture without surgery?
In some cases, fractures can heal without surgery. In appropriate injuries a cast, splint, or brace might be advised.
This is most effective when the fractures are in a good position. Your doctor may also need to follow up on your fracture using additional X-rays.
Some fractures, though, require a more aggressive approach to realigning the bone, or bones.
When surgery is needed for a fracture?
Surgery might be recommended for fractures that are very displaced or unstable.
Surgery may also be required for some open or complicated fractures. Some fractures are located in the joints and require proper alignment in order to function.
In surgery, the doctors can move the bones’ fragments. They can then apply plates, screws, rods or other mechanical devices of fixation.
Treatment will depend upon each individual’s injury. Your orthopaedic specialist can determine which treatment is best after examining you.
How long will take for the fracture to heal?
Individuals will heal at different rates. Fracture recovery can depend on the location and severity of the fracture.
Treatment may also be affected by your age, overall health and compliance. Depending on the injury, some fractures will heal in several weeks, others may take months.
Thus, do not resume normal activities until allowed by your doctor.
What Should You Do After a Fracture?
Avoid attempting to move the injured limb and get medical help following suspected fracture. Avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the injured area.
Never attempt to straighten a visibly bent limb. Rather, maintain the position until you can get medical help.
Continue treatment to achieve recovery. Follow up visits and follow up rehabilitation exercises.
If you need specialist fracture management, you can learn more about the orthopaedic services available at NE Ortho Care.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is it always necessary to have surgery for a broken bone?
No. Many fractures can heal with proper immobilisation. However, some complex or displaced fractures may require surgery.
2.Does a fractured bone have the potential to heal in the wrong way?
Yes. If there is a fracture that doesn’t heal or is misaligned, it may heal in the wrong position. This can impact on movement and function.
3.What factors do doctors take into account when determining the appropriate treatment for a fracture?
Your doctor evaluates the location, alignment, stability, severity of the fracture and your health.
4.When is it time to consult with an orthopaedic specialist?
Always have medical evaluation after severe trauma or if you think you may have broken a bone. Complications can be avoided if it is assessed promptly.
Conclusion
Treatment for fractures varies according to the type and severity of the fracture. Some fractures will heal with a cast or brace; some will need surgery.
So, do not select treatment for symptoms alone. An orthopaedic examination will help identify the safest treatment for optimal healing and recovery.
