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Nearly 7 million Americans suffer fractures each year. Most broken bones are minor and heal with casting, but more serious injuries often require surgery. At his practice in New Port Richey, Florida, John B. Fuller, MD, specializes in fracture care. He has years of experience managing all types of broken bones, from hairline fractures to crush injuries. Call the office today to schedule fracture treatment, or book your appointment online.
Fractures Q&A
What are bone fractures?
A bone fracture is an injury that causes one or more of your bones to crack or break into pieces. Fractures often result from trauma, such as a fall, car accident, or sports injury. Some heal with time and activity modification, but others require surgical treatment.
What are the symptoms of a fracture?
Fracture symptoms include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Bruising or skin discoloration
- Difficulty moving the affected body part
Some fractures cause physical abnormalities. For example, you might notice a large bump or a bone protruding through your skin.
Who is at risk of experiencing a fracture?
Fractures affect people of all ages. They’re most common in active individuals, like athletes and people who work strenuous jobs, but health problems can also increase your risk. For example, osteoporosis weakens the bones, increasing the risk of falls and fractures.
How does an orthopaedic surgeon diagnose fractures?
Dr. Fuller asks about your symptoms and completes a physical exam. He checks the affected area of your body, looking for bruising and swelling, and gently press on your skin to pinpoint sensitive places.
Dr. Fuller may order X-rays to capture detailed photos of your bone (or bones) and surrounding joints. X-rays confirm the location and severity of your fracture.
How does an orthopaedic surgeon treat fractures?
Fracture treatment depends on which bone was broken and how badly, but Dr. Fuller might suggest:
Immobilization
Immobilization uses a cast or splint to hold your broken bone in a specific position. You wear the cast or splint for 6-8 weeks while your fracture heals.
Closed reduction
If you have a fracture that breaks a bone into two pieces, Dr. Fuller uses closed reduction to realign them. During closed reduction, he administers a local anesthetic to prevent pain. Then, he manipulates your body to line up the broken bones beneath your skin. At the end of the procedure, he applies a cast or a splint, holding the bones in position while they heal.
Bone fracture surgery
Bones that break into multiple pieces often require orthopaedic surgery. During surgery, Dr. Fuller uses metal pins, plates, rods, and screws to repair the damage, realign your bones, and promote healing.
Call the office of John B. Fuller, MD, today to schedule fracture treatment, or book your appointment online.