What is a Complex Fracture?
A complex fracture is a severe break in a bone that often involves multiple fractures, bone displacement, or damage to surrounding tissues like muscles, ligaments, or nerves. These fractures can occur due to high-energy trauma, such as car accidents, falls, or sports injuries, and may require surgical intervention for proper healing.
Who Needs Complex Fracture Surgery?
You may need complex fracture surgery if you experience :
- Multiple fractures in the same bone or joint
- Displaced fractures, where the bone ends are not aligned
- Open fractures, where the bone breaks through the skin
- Fractures involving nerves, blood vessels, or other soft tissue damage
- Fractures that fail to heal with non-surgical methods (non-union fractures)
Types of Complex Fractures We Treat
1. Long Bone Fractures :
- Fractures in the arms (humerus, radius, ulna) or legs (femur, tibia, fibula).
- Often treated with internal fixation (plates, screws, or rods) to stabilize the bones.
2. Pelvic Fractures :
- Fractures of the pelvic ring often caused by trauma, requiring careful management to restore stability.
- May involve the use of external fixation or surgical plates to align the bones.
3. Spinal Fractures :
- Fractures in the spine (vertebrae) that may lead to instability or nerve compression.
- Treated with fusion surgery, decompression, or stabilization using screws and rods.
4. Fractures with Soft Tissue Damage :
- Fractures associated with torn muscles, ligaments, or tendons often require soft tissue repair alongside fracture treatment.
5. Open Fractures :
- These are fractures where the bone punctures the skin, requiring immediate surgical treatment to prevent infection and realign the bone.
- Often managed through debridement (cleaning the wound) and internal fixation.
Treatment of Complex Fractures
Surgical Intervention
- Internal Fixation : Uses screws, rods, or plates to hold the broken bones in place while they heal.
- External Fixation : Uses an external frame and pins to stabilize the fractures when internal fixation is not suitable.
- Bone Grafting : In cases of severe bone loss, bone grafts may be used to stimulate healing and promote bone growth.
- Joint Replacement : In cases where the fracture involves joint damage, a partial or total joint replacement may be necessary.
Non-Surgical Treatment
- In some cases, complex fractures may require casting, splinting, or traction to hold the bones in place as they heal. However, this is often not sufficient for fractures with significant displacement or multiple bone fragments.
Benefits of Complex Fracture Surgery
Precise Bone Alignment – Restores proper alignment to ensure optimal healing and function.
Reduced Risk of Complications – Prevents infection, non-union, or deformities that can arise from untreated fractures.
Restored Function & Mobility – Helps patients regain strength, stability, and full range of motion in the affected area.
Pain Relief – Minimizes pain associated with severe fractures by stabilizing the bones.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Hospital Stay : Typically 1-7 days depending on the severity and location of the fracture.
Early Movement : Light mobility or weight-bearing may be encouraged depending on the fracture type.
Full Recovery : 6 weeks to 6 months depending on the fracture and the healing process. Physical therapy is crucial for restoring strength and function.
Why Choose Us for Complex Fracture Treatment?
Skilled Orthopedic Surgeons – Specialized in managing severe bone injuries with advanced surgical techniques.
State-of-the-Art Technology – Utilizing the latest surgical tools and imaging to ensure precise fracture alignment.
Comprehensive Post-Surgery Care – From pain management to physical therapy, we provide full support for your recovery.
Minimized Risks & Faster Recovery – Focusing on reducing complications and accelerating the healing process.
If you’ve suffered a complex fracture and need expert treatment, schedule a consultation with our orthopedic surgeons today to learn about the best surgical options for you.