Description An upper leg fractu...
Description
An upper leg fracture is a fracture of the thigh bone called the femur. The femur is a strong bone and it takes a tremendous amount of force to break the bone. The most common causes of fracture are a fall from height, car accidents, and in individuals with osteoporotic bone. Treatment depends on the location, severity of the injury and age of the patient. The fracture can damage adjacent nerves and blood vessels. Fractures of this area can bleed a great deal and can be life threatening.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include pain, upper leg deformity, inability to move the leg, leg swelling, numbness, and tenderness.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical will be performed. The diagnosis is usually confirmed with an x-ray.
Tests:
X-ray
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Trauma Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical will be performed. The diagnosis is usually confirmed with an x-ray.
Tests:
X-ray
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Trauma Surgery
Treatment
Treatment depends on the location of the injury, severity of the fracture and the age of the patient. Nonoperative care includes immobilization with splinting or casting. The patient may need a closed reduction or surgery with an open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of the injured bones. Hardware may be applied in surgery to keep the bones aligned until the body heals the fracture.