Post-fracture sequelae

Written by Lv Yao

Orthopedics

Updated on September 19, 2024

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After a fracture, the potential sequelae depend on the location of the fracture and the chosen treatment method. For example, fractures involving joint surfaces can lead to traumatic arthritis after treatment. Similarly, femur fractures can lead to the formation of lower limb thrombosis after surgery and the fracture itself. Some fractures near joints might also affect the range of joint motion after treatment. Therefore, the type of sequelae after treating a fracture depends on both the location of the fracture and the treatment approach chosen.

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Written by Lv Yao

Orthopedics

50sec

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Is the fracture serious?

A fracture is when the integrity and continuity of the bone is compromised, resulting in symptoms such as pain, swelling, limited mobility, and deformity. The severity of a fracture depends on the extent of bone displacement, the location of the fracture, and whether there is associated damage to vital organs, blood vessels, or nerves. If the fracture is a simple one with minor displacement, it generally is not very serious. Appropriate repositioning can be selected, followed by brace support or plaster cast external fixation to facilitate bone healing. If the fracture is accompanied by significant damage to important blood vessels, nerves, or organs, and there are multiple fractures, this type of fracture is considered more serious. It could lead to shock from bleeding caused by the fracture, which can be life-threatening.

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Written by Li Jie

Orthopedics

1min 24sec

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How is a fracture treated?

The treatment of fractures involves three main principles: reduction, fixation, and functional exercise. First and foremost, a perfect reduction is required after a fracture. If the alignment of the fracture is not satisfactory, the fracture may require either closed or open reduction. After a successful closed reduction, if the fracture position is stable, fixation should be considered. Generally, following a successful closed reduction, a local application of a cast or splint can be done for external fixation. If the results of closed reduction are not satisfactory, surgical open reduction may be needed. In such cases, internal fixation, possibly with steel plates, steel pins, or intramedullary nails among other methods, is necessary. These first two points cover the need for reduction and effective fixation—including both external and internal fixation. After proper fixation, the fracture can gradually heal. During the healing process, active functional exercises are needed to prevent muscle atrophy and joint adhesion. To avoid disuse of the limb, muscle atrophy after removing the cast, whether it be a leg or an arm, functional exercises are imperative. Thus, the three principles of fracture treatment are reduction, fixation, and functional exercise, requiring professional care by medical experts in accredited hospitals.

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Written by Cheng Bin

Orthopedics

55sec

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Principles of Fracture Treatment

Usually, the treatment principles for patients after a fracture are mainly reflected in the following aspects: First, it is necessary to actively reposition displaced fractures, as continuously misplaced fractures can easily lead to nonunion or malunion later on. It is crucial to actively perform manual repositioning or consider open reduction and internal fixation surgery. Second, strict rest and immobilization must be adhered to, as these provide the best conditions for fracture healing. During the treatment period, patients can take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory analgesics and medications that promote fracture healing. Third, once callus formation begins in the later stages, diligent functional exercises are necessary. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor)

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Written by Cheng Bin

Orthopedics

48sec

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How long before a rib fracture stops hurting?

Regarding the question of how long it takes for rib fractures to stop hurting, usually, for patients with rib fractures, the pain gradually subsides after about two weeks. This is because around two weeks is the period when the fracture site reaches the fibrous connection stage, making it relatively stable, which therefore alleviates the pain. For patients with rib fractures in the early stages, if the diagnosis is clear, severe pain can be relieved by orally taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or by receiving pain relief injections. Additionally, it is crucial to closely monitor the vital signs of patients with rib fractures, as rib fractures often occur alongside lung contusions and the accumulation of fluid or air in the chest cavity. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Lv Yao

Orthopedics

1min 1sec

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How to exercise with a patellar fracture?

After a patellar fracture occurs, through immobilization or surgical treatment, it's possible to actively contract the quadriceps early on to strengthen muscle exercise and avoid muscle atrophy. Ankle pump exercises can also be performed, which are beneficial for the contraction of the calf muscles in the lower limbs, can help prevent thrombosis, and aid in the recovery of function. After the removal of external fixation or once the wound has healed, one can actively flex the knee joint. For example, by sitting at the edge of the bed with the knee naturally hanging, the knee joint can be flexed to 90 degrees. If there is difficulty in bending, one can push the healthy limb backward against the injured limb to help bend the knee joint. For exercises exceeding 90 degrees, one can lie flat on the bed, then flex the hip joint while holding the thigh of the injured limb with both hands, and allow the knee joint to naturally bend through gravity. This exercise can help restore the flexion and extension functions of the knee joint.