Comminuted Fractures

 

Structure of the break: This is a fracture in which the bone breaks in to 3 or more pieces. More often than not the fracture is a compound fracture, with fragments of the bone piercing the skin.

 

 

Diagnosis: An X-ray is usually sufficient to diagnose the fracture, along with taking in to account how the injury occurred.

 

 

Cause:  In order for the bone to shatter in such a way, a very forceful impact is needed, such as a car crash or severe fall.

 

 

Treatment: The comminuted fracture usually requires surgery to re-assemble the fragments of broken bone. The bone will also need to be immobilised, allowing time for the bone to heal.

 

Comminuted Fracture X-Ray Pre and Post Surgery

Fig.1

 

(Hover over for description)

 

 

Types of Fractures: Transverse / Oblique / Spiral / Logitudinal / Green Stick / Comminuted / Torus/Buckle / Impacted / Hairline / Compression/Crush / Avulsion

 

 

 

 

 

Fig.1 – Courtesy of Sjbrown, Wikipedia