Fractures

What’s the difference between open and closed fractures?

Open and closed fractures are two of the most common types of broken bones:

Open fractures

Open, or compound, fractures occur when a bone breaks through your skin. They often take longer to heal and increase the risk of infection and other complications.

Closed fractures

Closed fractures cause a bone to break into two or more pieces, but it doesn’t protrude through the skin. These fractures heal quicker and usually don’t require surgery.

It’s important to treat fractures promptly to ensure there’s no damage to the surrounding structures, like your blood vessels and nerves.

What are the symptoms of a fracture?

Fracture symptoms include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Difficulty moving the affected body part (like an arm or leg)
• Bruising and discoloration

You might have a bump or another visible abnormality, depending on the fracture’s size and location.

How does an orthopaedic surgeon diagnose fractures?

Dr. Koutsky reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes an exam. He checks the affected area, looking for bruising, swelling, or a bone protruding through your skin. Most fractures can be diagnosed visually, but he might order X-rays to assess the severity.

How does an orthopaedic surgeon treat fractures?

The DuPage Spine and Orthopaedics team treats fractures using a conservative, minimally invasive approach. Dr. Koutsky might suggest:

Immobilization

With immobilization, you wear a cast or splint for several weeks or months. These devices hold your bones in the proper position while your body heals. 

Closed reduction

Dr. Koutsky recommends closed reduction if your broken bones are severely misaligned. He administers a local anesthetic to prevent pain and manually moves your bones back into the proper position. He then applies a cast or splint to speed up the healing process. 

Bone fracture surgery

Dr. Koutsky recommends surgery for severe fractures that break a bone (or bones) into multiple pieces. During surgery, he realigns your bones and inserts rods, pins, and fasteners to hold them in position.

How long does it take for a fracture to heal?

Mild to moderate fractures typically heal within 6-8 weeks, but more severe fractures can take several months or up to a year. The length of your recovery depends on various factors, including what caused the fracture, the type of fracture, and the treatment you need.

Call DuPage Spine and Orthopaedics today to schedule an appointment, or book your visit online.