Weiss may proceed with surgical repair and stabilization of the fractured bone via internal or external fixation using screws, plates, and other biocompatible devices to hold the bones in place while the fracture heals.ĭr. After that, depending on the extent of your injury, Dr. Open fractures require surgical debridement and irrigation of the wound and bone to remove contaminants and severely damaged tissue. We also proceed quickly with X-rays and other imaging tests as necessary to help determine the severity of bone and soft tissue damage, which will determine the course of your treatment. Thus, you can expect to start on antibiotics immediately, often via IV infusion in the emergency room. The faster treatment begins, the better the chance of preventing infection.
#Bone fracture meaning skin#
Even a small wound in your protective skin barrier makes it easy for bacteria to thrive. Preventing infection that can invade bone and quickly become life-threatening is an overriding priority when treating an open fracture. However, a fall at home or a sports injury can also result in an open fracture if the impact has enough energy to force broken bone through skin. Open fractures are often related to high-impact trauma. And the risk of infection greatly complicates treatment for an open fracture. Sometimes the visible skin break is small and more like a puncture.Įither way, the underlying damage to bone, muscles, blood vessels, and other structures can be extensive. The wound may be large, through which the shattered ends of broken bone protrude. Also known as a compound fracture, an open fracture includes a tear or open wound in the skin. You may very well get a glimpse (or more) of bone, however, if you have an open fracture. But you won’t see the damaged bone itself without the benefit of X-rays and other diagnostic imaging. You may notice skin discoloration, obvious deformity, and swelling when you have a closed fracture. Most fractures are closed, meaning the break is hidden beneath layers of skin, muscle, and other tissue. More serious fractures include a comminuted fracture, which occurs when a bone breaks into several pieces.
Some are best described as small cracks in the bone (stress fractures). Open versus closed fracturesįractured, or broken, bones come in all shapes, sizes, and levels of damage. Weiss has to say about open fractures and the care they require. Weiss, MD, is well-known and highly regarded for his skill in treating fractures of all types. Children, teens, and adults in and around Beverly Hills, California, benefit from his expertise. An open fracture requires immediate attention.īoard-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist Andrew B.
When it comes to an open fracture, however, you don’t have the luxury of debating whether you should seek medical care now or later. But have you ever put off a trip to the doctor because you weren’t sure whether the ankle you twisted while running was broken or “just” sprained? Lots of us do that. Most folks would agree that fractured bones require medical attention.
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