Break

Bone Fracture
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Synonyms	Break
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Pain, swelling, bruising, inability to move the affected area
Complications	Infection, nonunion, malunion
Onset	Sudden
Duration	Varies
Types	N/A
Causes	Trauma, osteoporosis, overuse
Risks	Age, osteoporosis, certain sports
Diagnosis	Physical examination, X-ray, CT scan, MRI
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Immobilization, surgery, physical therapy
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Generally good with treatment
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

A bone fracture, commonly referred to as a break, is a medical condition where there is a partial or complete break in the continuity of the bone. In severe cases, the bone may be broken into several pieces. Fractures are typically the result of high force impact or stress, but they can also occur as a result of certain medical conditions that weaken the bones, such as osteoporosis, bone cancer, or osteogenesis imperfecta.

Types of Fractures

Fractures can be classified into several types based on their characteristics:

• Closed (simple) fracture: The skin remains intact.
• Open (compound) fracture: The bone breaks through the skin, increasing the risk of infection.
• Transverse fracture: The fracture line is perpendicular to the bone's long axis.
• Oblique fracture: The fracture line is at an angle to the bone's long axis.
• Comminuted fracture: The bone is broken into several pieces.
• Greenstick fracture: An incomplete fracture where the bone bends, common in children.
• Stress fracture: A small crack in the bone that often develops from repetitive force or overuse.

Causes

Fractures are most commonly caused by:

• Trauma: Such as falls, car accidents, or sports injuries.
• Osteoporosis: A condition that weakens bones, making them more susceptible to fractures.
• Overuse: Repetitive motion can lead to stress fractures, especially in athletes.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a fracture can vary depending on the severity and location of the break, but they generally include:

• Intense pain at the site of the fracture
• Swelling and bruising
• Deformity or abnormal mobility
• Inability to bear weight or move the affected limb

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a fracture typically involves:

• Physical examination: Checking for tenderness, swelling, and deformity.
• Imaging tests: Such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to confirm the fracture and assess its severity.

Treatment

Treatment of fractures depends on the type and severity of the fracture:

• Immobilization: Using a cast or splint to keep the bone in place while it heals.
• Surgery: In cases of severe fractures, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign and stabilize the bone using metal rods, plates, or screws.
• Physical therapy: To restore movement and strength after the bone has healed.

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment, most fractures heal without complications. However, some fractures may lead to complications such as:

• Nonunion: The bone does not heal properly.
• Malunion: The bone heals in an incorrect position.
• Infection: Particularly in open fractures.

Prevention

Preventive measures include:

• Maintaining bone health through a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
• Regular weight-bearing exercise to strengthen bones.
• Using protective gear during sports and other high-risk activities.

Also see

• Osteoporosis
• Bone healing
• Orthopedic surgery
• Physical therapy