Treatment of a Comminuted Bone Fracture
A comminuted bone fracture is a severe injury that could lead to permanent complications if it is not treated appropriately. Bone fractures can be classified in multiple ways. These classifications are important because they dictate the treatment process.
Factors Involved in Comminuted Fractures
Some of the most important factors to consider when assessing a bone fracture include:
- The number of bone fractures present.
- The location of these bone fractures.
- Whether or not the fractures are displaced.
- The presence or absence of any associated injuries.
A comminuted bone fracture is diagnosed if the bone has broken or splintered into more than two pieces. To break a bone in this manner, a significant amount of force is required.
What are the Common Reasons for Comminuted Bone Fractures?
Some of the most common ways that people sustained a comminuted fracture include:
- A slip and fall injury from a great height.
- Involvement in a severe auto accident, particularly one involving the vehicular ejection.
- Serious auto versus pedestrian accidents and injuries.
If someone has been diagnosed with a comminuted fracture, there are several steps involved in the treatment process.
Emergency Treatment for Comminuted Fractures
Because of the force that is required to cause a comminuted fracture, the first steps are going to involve stabilizing the individual and managing his or her pain. Some of the essential parts of this treatment process include:
- Stopping any bleeding that might have occurred, mainly if the fracture is also open.
- Providing additional intravenous fluids to support blood pressure.
- Immobilizing the fracture location to prevent further damage.
- Providing pain medication to help the individual stay still and comfortable.
Once this is done, images are taken to get a better look at the fracture. This could include x-rays, CT scans, or MRIs.
How is a Comminuted Bone Fracture Surgically Corrected?
With these images in hand, the final diagnosis of a comminuted fracture can be made. These images will also help a trained orthopedic surgeon plan his or her surgical approach. In the operating room, the surgeon will:
- Place the various pieces of the bone back in their proper anatomic location.
- Hold these pieces together using screws, plates, or other surgical equipment.
- Repair any other associated injuries which could include muscle, ligament, or tendon damage.
Once this is done, it will take several weeks for the bones to heal. After this, physical therapy is often needed to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion to the injury site.
Watch YouTube Video: Comminuted Elbow Fracture Treatment by Grand Central Physical Therapy and Hand Therapy. This video discusses how a comminuted elbow fracture is treated.
Contacting a Personal Injury Lawyer in California
Having a loved one who requires surgery after an accident can be a difficult situation. This can place the entire family under a significant amount of stress. Because of this, families need to know that help is available. An experienced Vacaville personal injury attorney can help families make objective decisions during an emotionally challenging time. This could include pursuing damages related to the accident, its injuries, and any complications. Reach out to a personal injury attorney in California today.
Vacaville, CA Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Vacaville Personal Injury Lawyer. A comminuted bone fracture almost always requires surgical correction. If you or someone you care about has needed surgery for a bone fracture after a traumatic accident, please call our injury lawyers at (800) 404-5400 or (916) 921-6400 for free, friendly case advice.
I am a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and of the Top One Percent, a National Association of Distinguished Counsel.
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