Archive for May 2012

Femur Fracture and the Risks It Involves

Femur fracture is otherwise known as the break in the thigh bone. It is the part that may be found between the hip and the knee. Femur fracture has two kinds: open and close. Most of the femur fractures are closed fracture, which means that it does not penetrate to the skin as opposed to open femur fracture. This bone is basically strong and it takes a large amount of force or pressure to break it. A head-on collision, fall or other injuries with sufficient force may break the femur shaft. A person clinically diagnosed with osteoporosis or other diseases affecting bone density may be exposed to greater risks of developing fractures which requires the need for using a dangerous medical device as treatment.

Symptoms of femur fracture may be easily observed. According to orthopaedic experts, severe pain and inability to walk are among its primary signs. Bleeding in substantial amounts and discoloration within the surrounding area (which leaves a black mark) is also one of the symptoms of femur fracture.

Patients who are diagnosed with femur fracture stand at risks of developing blood clots. Swelling and immobility following the treatment may disrupt regular blood flow as indicated by medical data. Anemia or low blood count may also arise due to this condition. In cases in which the fractured femur breaks the layers of the skin, the risk of developing infection increases. There are also other complications that are rarely observed, namely nerve damage and compartment syndrome. The former may result in the numbness or weakness in the lower legs and the latter may compress the nerves, blood vessels in one closed space in the body.  Most often it happens in the thigh area where there is substantial bleeding and inflammation.

Surgical treatments for this type of fracture may also lead to surgical complications. Devices such as DePuy Pinnacle may destabilize the bone and results to severe pain and irritation. Nerve damage is also a possible surgical complication. Treatment for thigh bone fracture often involves surgery, rehabilitation and medication. Each treatment carries with it a potential adverse effect as for any other treatment citing opinions by medical experts. It is deemed best that treatment as well as its possible risks be discussed thoroughly by the patient and the health care provider.


URL References:


  • exitcare.com/pdf_files/example_titles/ec_ip_Femoral-Shaft-Fracture_02-08.pdf
  • freemd.com/femur-fracture/complications.htm
  • orthoanswer.org/hip/femur-fractures/complications.html

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