Femoral fractures refer to breaks in the femur, the thigh bone, which is the longest and strongest bone in the body. These fractures are significant due to the femur’s crucial role in supporting weight and mobility.
Causes and Risk Factors
Femoral fractures often result from high-energy impacts, such as car accidents or falls from a height. In older adults, they can occur from lower-energy incidents, like a simple fall, especially if the bone is weakened by osteoporosis. Risk factors include age, certain medical conditions like osteoporosis or cancer, and participation in high-impact sports.
Types of Femoral Fractures
Femoral fractures can vary in location and severity:
- Proximal femur fractures (near the hip)
- Femoral shaft fractures (the long, straight part of the femur)
- Distal femur fractures (near the knee)
Symptoms
Common symptoms include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and an inability to bear weight on the affected leg. The injured leg may also appear shorter or deformed if the fracture is displaced.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans. Treatment depends on the fracture’s location and severity. Options include surgical repair with rods, plates, and screws to stabilize the bone, or in some cases, hip or knee replacement for proximal or distal fractures, respectively. Non-surgical treatment may involve traction or bracing, but it’s less common.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery includes physical therapy to regain strength and mobility. The healing process can take several months, depending on the severity of the fracture and the patient’s overall health.
Femoral fractures are serious injuries requiring prompt medical attention. Treatment often involves surgery, followed by extensive rehabilitation to ensure proper healing and the restoration of function.
