Classifying Fractures Flashcards
What should be done when a patient presents with a potential fracture?
History/examination -determine cause, site, associated injuries, joint symptoms and neurovascular status Radiology -two plain films at different angles -must do joints above and below -CT/MRI if features poorly visible
What type of fracture is this?
Transverse
Straight horizontal line through tibia
What type of fracture is this?
Oblique
Diagonal line
What type of fracture is this?
Spiral
Due to rotation causing fracture
What type of fracture is this?
Straight line down the bone
What type of fracture is this?
Multi directional
Crosses more than one plane
What type of fracture is this?
Comminuted/Multi fragmental
Must have >3 pieces
What type of fracture is this?
Butterfly
Forms a triangular shape
What type of fracture is this?
Segmental
Portions of bone must separate from the proximal and distal portion of the shaft of the bone
What is displacement?
Where the bone no longer aligns to its other part
It can become shortened- where the distal bit overlaps the proximal part
It can be angulated- distal portion at an angle to proximal
Can be distracted- widening of the gap between the two parts of bone
Can be impacted- two parts of the bone can be jammed together- difficult to see fracture line
How can you describe the location of a fracture?
Proximal or distal
Mid shaft, base or head
If at base or head- is it intra-articular (more likely to require surgery)