The femur is the longest, strongest bone in the body, and bears most of the weight. Femoral fractions are common in motor vehicle accidents and from high energy activities. These types of fractures can be fatal without proper immediate care. Treatment for these types of injuries can be surgical or non surgical. For infants and school aged children, non surgical casts are preferred, but can result in shortened limbs as well as skin conditions, if not watched carefully. For adults with these types of injuries surgery is preferred to correct the bone properly. The healing time for such injuries are between 4 to 6 months if proper care is administered and no blood or nerve damage is present.
The six types of femoral fractures include: Femoral neck fracture: Occurs just below the ball of the hip joint and is common in older adults. Intertrochanteric fracture: Located between the greater and lesser trochanters of the femur, often resulting from falls. Subtrochanteric fracture: Found below the trochanters, typically due to high-energy trauma. Distal femur fracture: Occurs near the knee joint and can affect the knee's function. Shaft fracture: Involves the long, central part of the femur and can result from direct trauma. Patellar fracture: While not a femoral fracture in the strict sense, it can occur in conjunction with femoral injuries, affecting the kneecap area.
CPT code 27506 pertains to 'Open treatment of femoral shaft fracture, with or without external fixation, with insertion of intramedullary implant, with or without cerclage'
Non-surgical treatment for a femoral shaft fracture in a healthy adult male typically involves functional bracing, which allows for some movement while providing support to the fracture site. This method often includes the use of a brace or cast that stabilizes the leg and allows for weight-bearing as tolerated. Pain management and physical therapy are also integral to restore function and strength during the healing process. However, this approach is generally reserved for specific fracture types and may not be suitable for all patients, depending on the fracture's characteristics.
To transfer an obese patient with a non-weight-bearing femoral shaft fracture, ensure adequate communication and teamwork among staff. Use a specialized transfer device, such as a slide sheet or transfer board, to minimize friction and provide stability. Two or more trained caregivers should assist, with one supporting the patient’s upper body and another stabilizing the legs to avoid strain on the injured area. Always ensure that the patient's safety and comfort are prioritized throughout the process.
This would be a hairline fracture or stress fracture. These only occur in weight bearing bones.
greenstick fracture
Sandra Massie has written: 'Cast bracing of femoral shaft fractures'
Greenstick fracture is a type of fracture where there is a faint line curving around the shaft of the arm bone. It is more common in children due to their softer bones. Instead of breaking completely, the bone bends and cracks on one side.
Closed fracture of shaft of clavicle
A "boxers" fracture generally refers to a fracture of the metacarpal bones-more commonly the fith metacarpal anywhere between mid shaft and the distal(knuckle) end of the the bone.
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Fractures are termed complete if the break is completely through the bone and described as incomplete or "greenstick" if the fracture occurs partly across a bone shaft