Fracture Care: Restoring Function and Promoting Healing
Anatomy
Fractures, or broken bones, occur when there is a disruption in the continuity of bone tissue. Bones are composed of calcium and collagen fibers, providing structure and support to the body. Fractures can vary in severity, from simple cracks to complex breaks with multiple fragments. Understanding the anatomy of the affected bone and surrounding structures is crucial for effective treatment.
Injury
Fractures can result from various causes, including trauma, falls, sports injuries, or underlying
conditions such as osteoporosis. The mechanism of injury and the force involved determine the
type and severity of the fracture. Common types of fractures include:
- Closed fracture: The bone breaks but does not penetrate the skin.
- Open fracture: The broken bone pierces through the skin, increasing the risk of infection.
- Displaced fracture: The bone fragments are not aligned properly.
- Comminuted fracture: The bone is broken into multiple pieces.
Treatment
Prompt and appropriate treatment is essential to ensure proper healing and minimize long-term complications. Treatment options may include:
- Non-Surgical Management: Simple fractures or those with minimal displacement may be treated non-surgically. Methods such as immobilization using casts, splints, or braces help stabilize the fracture and promote healing. Close monitoring and regular follow-up
appointments ensure proper healing and functional recovery. Surgical Intervention: Complex fractures, fractures with significant displacement, or those affecting critical structures may require surgical intervention. Advanced techniques such as open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), external fixation, intramedullary nailing, or plate and screw fixation are used to realign the bone fragments and stabilize the fracture.
Surgery Options
Surgical intervention aims to restore the normal alignment and stability of the fractured bone. Depending on the type and location of the fracture, as well as patient-specific factors, the surgeon may choose from various surgical techniques:
- Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): Involves surgically realigning the fractured bone fragments and securing them in place with screws, plates, or rods.
- External Fixation: Uses pins or screws inserted into the bone, which are then connected to an external frame to stabilize the fracture.
- Intramedullary Nailing: Involves inserting a metal rod into the marrow cavity of the bone to stabilize the fracture internally.
- Plate and Screw Fixation: Uses metal plates and screws to stabilize the fracture fragments.
Postoperative Care
Following surgery or non-surgical treatment, comprehensive rehabilitation plays a crucial role in promoting healing and restoring function. Our dedicated rehabilitation team collaborates closely with patients to develop customized rehabilitation plans aimed at:
- Restoring strength, mobility, and function through physical therapy and occupational therapy.
- Preventing stiffness and complications through early mobilization and specialized exercises.
- Educating patients on proper wound care, activity modification, and pain management strategies.
- Monitoring progress and adjusting the treatment plan as needed to ensure optimal outcomes.
Dr. Shah committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care throughout the entire fracture care journey. From initial evaluation and diagnosis to treatment, rehabilitation, and follow-up, our multidisciplinary team works together to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. We prioritize open communication, education, and support to empower patients to actively participate in their recovery and regain independence.
Contact
Feel free to inquire about your specific condition with us.
Every patient is distinct. Schedule an appointment to converse with us, allowing us to gain a precise understanding of your situation. Together, we’ll formulate a care plan tailored to your goals.