A femur fracture refers to a break in the thigh bone. The symptoms, treatment, and potential complications of this fracture vary depending on whether the break occurs across the bone’s neck (the short section between the top of the shaft and the hip joint) or across the shaft.
This type of fracture, commonly known as a broken hip, is prevalent among elderly individuals, particularly in women who have osteoporosis (a condition characterized by the loss of bone density). It often occurs after a fall. When the femur’s neck is fractured, the broken bone ends can be significantly displaced, leading to intense pain in the hip and groin, which makes standing impossible. Sometimes, the broken bone ends may be impacted or pushed together, resulting in less pain, and walking may still be feasible in such cases.
Confirmation of the diagnosis is achieved through an X-ray examination. When the bone ends are displaced, a surgical procedure becomes necessary. This operation can involve realigning the bone ends and securing them together or, alternatively, replacing the entire head and neck of the femur with an artificial substitute. On the other hand, if the bone ends are impacted (pushed together), the fracture might heal naturally, but surgery could still be advised as a precautionary measure.
One potential complication is the impairment of blood supply to the head of the femur, leading to bone disintegration in that region. Another consequence of femur neck fracture is the potential development of osteoarthritis in the hip joint. For elderly individuals, immobility and surgical procedures could give rise to complications, like pneumonia, which are not directly connected to the site of the fracture.
Fracture of the femur’s bone shaft typically happens when the bone experiences significant force, like in a traffic accident. In such instances, the bone ends are often significantly displaced, leading to intense pain, tenderness, and swelling. Moreover, a fractured femoral shaft can result in substantial blood loss from the bone.
Confirmation of the diagnosis is accomplished through an X-ray examination. Typically, the fracture is treated with surgery, during which the broken ends of the bone are repositioned and secured using a metal pin. However, in some cases, realignment of the bone ends can be achieved through manipulation, eliminating the need for surgery. Following realignment, the leg is supported with a splint and put in traction to keep the bone stabilized as it heals.
Possible complications encompass the failure of bone ends to properly unite or the fusion of broken ends at an incorrect angle, bone infections, and potential damage to nerves or arteries. Additionally, a fracture of the lower shaft can result in permanent knee stiffness.