Complications that May Develop After Sustaining Fractures

There are many medical problems someone can develop after sustaining a fracture and in some cases the complications can be life threatening. One complication is shock, hypovolemic shock is related to excessive blood loss or loss of extracellular fluid for tissue damage such as with severe burns. If the shock is left untreated a person's condition can rapidly deteriorate. Proper treatment for shock consists of administering blood or fluid replacement and careful monitoring of the patient to treat any further deterioration in the patient's condition.

A fat embolism is another complication that can develop after sustaining a fracture. Fat globules can be released after sustaining traumatic fractures of long bones, pelvis or multiple crushing fractures. The fat globules are released and combine with the person's platelets, thereby forming emboli. The emboli can then cause many different medical problems including cerebral problems and respiratory distress. To prevent fat emboli the person must have early respiratory support and rapid immobilization of any fracture. The person must then be closely monitored for any cerebral or nervous system changes, as well as any respiratory problems.

Pulmonary embolism are another fracture complication that can happen. A thromboembolism may happen after a fracture or fracture surgery. A pulmonary embolism can be life threatening. In order to avoid a pulmonary embolism proper circulation and venous stasis must be prevented. Administration of medications such as heparin can prevent clot formation after a fracture or fracture surgery.

Compartment syndrome is tissue perfusion in the muscle compartment. An example of this complication is tissue swelling or hemorrhage and in some cases the cast may be too tight resulting in circulation issues. If proper circulation is not restored it can result in permanent tissue and nerve damage, as well as contracture and muscle atrophy. Compartment syndrome can be avoided by careful patient monitoring. Evaluating the extremity for swelling, pain and discoloration can prevent compartment syndrome. Elevation of the fractured extremity, application of ice and performing neurovascular checks can also prevent compartment syndrome.

Delayed bone healing is another complication of severe fractures. Many times the bone fails to heal at the expected rate, delayed healing may result after the fractured ends fail to unite and heal. Delayed union may require surgical intervention and promote proper bone growth. Electrical stimulation can also promote bone growth, as well as bone grafting.

Infection within the bone is another complication that can develop after a fracture or fracture surgery. The potential for infection increases with compound fractures or open fractures and skeletal traction, as well as surgical intervention. Infection can be prevented by careful monitoring and proper sterile techniques when handling any open wound or incision. If any infection develops aggressive antibiotic treatment must be started as soon as possible.

Avascular necrosis is a condition that occurs from interruption of the blood supply to the fracture, causing the bone tissue to die. Monitoring for pain and decreased function of the affected limb to prevent avascular necrosis. A bone graft or prosthesis such as joint replacement maybe necessary to correct the condition. In some cases joint fusion and amputation may be necessary to avoid further necrosis.

References for this article include:
www.medicinenet.com/fracture/article.htm
www.emedicinehealth.com/script/main/art.asp
www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Broken-bones/Pages/Complications.aspx