Fractures and broken bones are sometimes considered a rite of passage in childhood. They occur as a result of high impact on the bones and often take a few weeks or months to heal.
However, broken bones and fractures can result in serious complications. This is especially the case when they are not set properly. Victims can suffer serious infections such as osteomyelitis as a result. This may result in the amputation of limbs.
If you have been in a motor vehicle collision that broke or fractured one or more bones, it is vital that you understand just how serious your injuries are and the risks you face.
All about fractures
Fractures differ in severity and presentation. The most common types of fractures include:
- Stable fractures: These are fractures in which the ends of the broken bones still line up even after breaking.
- Greenstick fractures: The bones in these types of fractures break slightly as a result of being bent.
- Compound/open fractures: These fractures include those in which the bone pierces through the skin.
- Oblique fractures: These fractures occur as a result of the bone breaking at an angle
- Transverse fractures: These are fractures that occur when the bone breaks horizontally
- Buckle fractures: These fractures result when the ends of the broken bones are driven into each other.
- Comminuted fractures: These fractures include those in which bones are shattered into three pieces or more.
The most severe fractures are the open or compound fractures. They are also considered the most dangerous fractures as they can easily result in infections. They are most commonly seen in high impact car accidents.
Comminuted fractures on the other hand are the most difficult type of fracture to treat. This is because there are multiple pieces to deal with. They often require surgical intervention.
Complications
Numerous complications can arise from fractures. These include:
- Ankle pain
- Knee pain
- Infection
- Incomplete healing resulting from a disruption in blood flow to the injured limb
- Blood vessel damage
- Nerve damage
- Arthritis
- Unequal length or limbs
- Back pain
- Compartment syndrome
Compartment syndrome is a complication that results in the development of pain, disability or swelling in the muscles that are near the broken bone.
Some complications can result in the loss of limbs through amputation.
If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident, talk to a qualified car crash lawyer today.
