COMPOUND FRACTURE
A Compound Fracture occurs when the bone breaks and a bone breaks through the skin
A Compound Fracture
A compound fracture is also known as an open fracture. It is a type of bone fracture that occurs when a broken bone protrudes through the skin. In children, a compound fracture is a serious injury that can result from falls, sports injuries, or other traumatic events. The severity of the injury can vary depending on the location of the fracture and the damage to the tissue.
In addition to the obvious bone break, there is also an open wound on the skin at the site of the fracture. This increases the risk of infection and may require immediate medical attention to prevent further complications. Treatment for a compound fracture in a child typically involves cleaning the wound and stabilizing the broken bone. Stabilization occurs with a cast, splint, or another immobilization device. In some cases, doctors will suggest surgery to repair the fracture and prevent further damage.
The Causes of Compound Fractures in Children
Compound fractures, also known as open fractures, in children, can occur as a result of various traumatic events or accidents, such as:
Falls from a height: Children may fall from a height while playing or climbing, leading to compound fractures.
- Sports injuries: Children who participate in high-contact sports, such as football or hockey, may sustain compound fractures.
- Motor vehicle accidents: Children who are involved in motor vehicle accidents may suffer compound fractures as a result of the impact force.
- Physical abuse: In rare cases, compound fractures may result from physical abuse or child maltreatment.
- Accidental injuries: Children can suffer compound fractures due to accidental injuries. For example, a hand or foot caught in a bicycle spoke or getting hit by a heavy object.
It’s important to take appropriate measures to prevent these types of injuries in children. For instance, using proper safety equipment, supervising outdoor play, and teaching children safe behaviors. If a child experiences a compound fracture, prompt medical attention will minimize the risk of complications. In addition, a doctor’s quick response will promote proper healing.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
What is a compound fracture in a child, and how does it occur?
A compound fracture in a child, like in any individual, refers to a fracture where the broken bone penetrates the skin and is exposed externally. This typically occurs due to significant trauma or force applied to the bone, such as a severe fall, a direct impact, or a high-energy injury. The force becomes strong enough to not only break the bone but also cause it to protrude through the skin.
What are the immediate steps to take when a child has a compound fracture?
When a child experiences a compound fracture, parents should immediately spring into action. Call for emergency medical help. While waiting for medical assistance, keep the child as still as possible to prevent further injury. Do not attempt to realign the bone or push it back into the skin. Control bleeding by applying gentle pressure with a clean cloth or bandage. If possible, cover the wound with a clean cloth to minimize the risk of infection. Elevating the injured limb may also help reduce swelling.
How do doctors treat a compound fracture in a child?
Treatment for a compound fracture in a child involves emergency medical care, which includes cleaning and disinfecting the wound, and administering pain relief and antibiotics to prevent infection. The healthcare team will carefully clean the wound and may conduct additional imaging such as X-rays or CT scans to assess the extent of the injury and plan the appropriate treatment. Treatment often involves surgery to properly realign the broken bones, clean the wound thoroughly, and stabilize the fracture using internal fixation (screws, plates) or external fixation devices. Post-surgery, the child will likely require pain management, antibiotics, wound care, and physical therapy for rehabilitation.
The doctors at the Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists Practice only treat children. As such, our doctors have become experts with children and adolescents and treat their broken bones. We urge parents to bring their children to us to ensure proper broken bone treatment.
The Symptoms of Open Fractures in Children
The symptoms of a compound fracture in children can vary depending on the location and severity of the injury. Some common symptoms may include:
- Severe pain: Children with a compound fracture may experience severe pain at the site of the injury, which can worsen with movement.
- Visible deformity: The broken bone may cause a visible deformity in the limb. The skin may appear broken or punctured at the site of the fracture.
- Swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising may occur around the area of the fracture.
- Inability to move the affected limb: The injury prevents the child from moving the affected limb or may experience limited mobility. Pain and swelling also will affect movement.
- Bleeding: If the skin is broken, the wound may bleed.
- Numbness or tingling: Children may experience numbness or tingling in the affected limb, which could indicate nerve damage.
If your child experiences any of these symptoms after a fall or accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Compound fractures are serious injuries that require prompt treatment to prevent further damage and reduce the risk of complications.
Diagnosing a Compound Fracture in Children
- Physical examination: The doctor will begin by examining the child’s affected limb, looking for signs of swelling, deformity, and tenderness. They may also check the child’s range of motion and muscle strength.
- X-rays: X-rays are commonly used to diagnose fractures as they can show the location, severity, and direction of the break. In the case of a compound fracture, X-rays can also help the doctor determine the extent of the wound.
- CT scan or MRI: In some cases, the doctor may recommend a CT scan or MRI to get a more detailed view of the injury. Especially, if the fracture appears complex or involves other structures, such as tendons or ligaments.
- Wound assessment: If the skin appears broken, the doctor will assess the wound to determine the extent of the damage. This will include whether any debris or foreign objects are present. They may also test the wound for signs of infection.
Once the diagnosis is made, the doctor will develop a treatment plan tailored to the child’s specific needs. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing further damage and promoting proper healing.
Treating Open Fractures in Children
- Cleaning and disinfecting the wound: The first step in treating a compound fracture is to clean the wound thoroughly to prevent infection. The doctor may irrigate the wound with a sterile saline solution and apply an antibiotic ointment.
- Reducing the fracture: The doctor may need to manipulate the broken bone fragments to align them properly and reduce the fracture. This may involve using local anesthesia or sedation in some cases.
- Immobilization: After the fracture has been reduced, the doctor may use a cast, splint, or external fixation device. The device will immobilize the affected limb and keep the bone in the proper position. This helps to promote healing and prevent further damage.
- Surgery: In some cases, doctors will recommend surgery to repair the broken bone and prevent further damage. This may involve placing pins, screws, or plates to hold the bone fragments in place.
- Pain management: Pain management becomes an essential part of treatment. The doctor may prescribe pain medications or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Follow-up care: After the initial treatment, the child will need monitoring to ensure that the fracture heals properly. This may involve follow-up appointments with the doctor, X-rays, and physical therapy.
It’s important to seek medical attention immediately if your child experiences a compound fracture. This will minimize the risk of complications and promote proper healing.
Recovering from a Compound Fracture
The recovery time for a compound fracture, also known as an open fracture, in a child can vary depending on the severity and location of the injury, as well as the age and overall health of the child. In general, the recovery time can range from several weeks to several months. During the initial stage of recovery, the child will need to keep the affected limb immobilized to promote proper healing. This may involve wearing a cast, splint, or external fixation device for several weeks. The child may also need to take pain medication and avoid certain activities that could put stress on the affected limb.
As the fracture begins to heal, the child may need physical therapy to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the affected limb. The duration and intensity of physical therapy will depend on the severity of the injury and the child’s overall health. The doctor will monitor the child’s progress through follow-up appointments and X-rays to ensure that the bone heals properly. Depending on the location and severity of the injury, the child may need regular check-ups for several months after the initial treatment. In general, children tend to recover faster from fractures than adults due to their higher metabolism and faster healing rates. However, it’s important to follow the doctor’s instructions carefully and give the child enough time to recover fully to minimize the risk of complications and promote proper healing.
Why Choose the Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists
The board-certified pediatric orthopedic surgeons and fellowship-trained physicians at Medical City Children’s Orthopedic and Spine Specialists treat children, adolescents, and young adults who have fractures of all complexities. Our expertise gives room for the accurate diagnosis of problems that relate to the growing musculoskeletal system. We will develop optimal care plans that will ensure that your child’s specific condition gets cared for.
Finally, we offer personalized treatment and urgent pediatric care services at all of our four locations — Arlington, Dallas, Flower Mound, Frisco, and McKinney, TX. If your child has a compound fracture, don’t hesitate to contact us to avoid any complications.
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Footnote:
National Institute of Health: Open Fracture Management
Call 214-556-0590 to make an appointment.
Comprehensive services for children from birth through adolescence at five convenient locations: Arlington, Dallas, Flower Mound, Frisco and McKinney.
