What is it:

It is the interruption of the continuity of a bone that usually occurs following a traumatic event.

A fracture can be compound if the two parts move and are no longer aligned on the same axis, or stable if the fragments remain on the same axis; a fracture can also be closed, if there is no tearing of the muscular or cutaneous tissue, or open, when a bone piece tears the skin: in this case there is a higher risk of infection.

The fracture of the wrist or fingers is a relatively common pathology. In general, it is accompanied by violent pain, limb deformation, swelling, movement and functional incapacity, swelling and bruising. Diagnosis is generally performed using an x-ray.

Recommended treatment:

The application of a functional brace or a plaster cast can be sufficient to treat a compound and stable fracture or one that has been reduced. In some types of fractures, the bone ends can be maintained in the correct position by using metal wires or screws inserted with the external fixation method.

Other cases may require surgery that uses synthetic devices such as wires, screws or plates to stabilize the bone, and often do not require postoperative immobilization. In some cases, in serious compound fractures part of the bone may be missing or the fracture is such that it cannot be repaired directly. In such cases it is necessary to resort to a bone graft taken from another part of the body to ensure greater stability.

Nowadays in many cases, the available techniques allow immediate mobilization without using methods of immobilization.

Once the bone has healed, joint problems or a decrease in strength may result. In these cases, postoperative rehabilitative treatment will be essential.