A fracture is a break in the continuity of one of the skeleton components.
There are a number of criteria for classifying fractures. Depending on the number of fragments the bone breaks into, it is said to be simple fracture i multi-fragment fracture. The fracture can proceed without the fragments displaced – this is then rupture, or with their displacement. If the skin and soft tissues above the fracture site are not broken, the fracture is closed; if, however, they were interrupted – open fracture.
The general symptoms of a fracture are pain that worsens when you try to move the damaged area, its deformation and thickening due to internal hemorrhage, audible friction of bone fragments against each other, and unnatural body posture. In the case of an open fracture, it is accompanied by an external haemorrhage – usually massive and there is a wound in which bone fragments are visible.
First aid for fractures is about them immobilization. However, the first thing to do is to ensure the patient’s safety and general condition. If there is external haemorrhage, it must be stopped before immobilizing the fracture. Specialized equipment (rails, vacuum mattresses, scarves, slings) or emergency measures are used for immobilization. Before immobilizing a given area, it should be secured with a dressing. It is not allowed to immobilize areas where there are symptoms suggesting ischemia (bruising, pale, lack of pulse, etc.). Then, medical aid should be provided to the injured as soon as possible.
Detailed guidelines for treating fractures are site-specific (special attention should be given to conditions with suspected spine fractures).
Read also: Diet after bone fractures
Text: SzB
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