What Are the Symptoms of a Bone Fracture?

Update Date: 2024-05-17 Source: Network

Fracture Symptoms and Examination Methods

Fractures can occur in many situations, especially when bones are subjected to violent trauma. It is difficult to determine the presence of a fracture solely based on sensation, and timely response is required if a fracture occurs, as displacement can have adverse effects on recovery. Therefore, it is important to understand the symptoms of fractures for diagnosis. What are the symptoms of fractures? Here is a breakdown:

I. Symptoms of Fractures

1. Systemic Manifestations

Shock: In cases of multiple fractures, pelvic fractures, femoral fractures, spinal fractures, and severe open fractures, patients may experience shock due to extensive soft tissue damage, massive hemorrhage, severe pain, or concurrent visceral injuries.
Fever: A large amount of internal bleeding occurs at the fracture site, and a slight elevation in body temperature may be observed during the absorption of hematoma, but it generally does not exceed 38°C. Elevated body temperature in open fractures should raise suspicion of infection.

2. Local Manifestations: Local manifestations of fractures include specific signs and other symptoms.

3. Specific Signs of Fractures

Deformity: Displacement of the fracture ends can alter the appearance of the affected limb, manifesting as shortening, angular deviation, or prolongation.
Abnormal Activity: Abnormal movement may be observed in areas of the body that normally cannot move due to fractures.
Bone Rubbing Sound or Feeling: Mutual friction and impact between the two fracture ends can produce a bone rubbing sound or feeling.

II. Fracture Examination Methods

1. X-ray Examination: Routine X-ray examination is recommended for suspected fractures. It can reveal incomplete fractures, deep fractures, intra-articular fractures, and small avulsion fractures that are difficult to detect clinically. Even for fractures that are clinically apparent, X-ray examination is necessary to understand the type and specific circumstances of the fracture, which is instructive for treatment. X-ray films should include both anteroposterior and lateral views, and must include adjacent joints. Sometimes, oblique, tangential, or contralateral views may be necessary.

2. CT Examination: CT examination is indicated for cases where the fracture is unclear but cannot be excluded, for spinal fractures that may compress the spinal cord or nerve roots, and for complex fractures. Three-dimensional CT reconstruction can provide a more intuitive and convenient way to classify fractures and is helpful in selecting treatment options. It is currently widely used in clinical practice.

3. MRI Examination: Although MRI is less effective than CT in revealing fracture lines, it has unique advantages in displaying spinal cord, nerve root, and soft tissue injuries. It is now widely used in the examination of spinal fractures.