There are several types of fractures:
1. Non-displaced fracture: The bone cracks or breaks but remains in place, often referred to as a “simple” fracture.
2. Displaced fracture: The bone breaks into two or more pieces.
3. Open or compound fracture: The bone breaks and pierces through the skin.
Femur Fractures:
Femur fractures typically result from high-impact trauma, such as automobile accidents or falls from heights. They can lead to severe complications like significant bleeding within the thigh and the formation of blood clots, potentially resulting in life-threatening conditions like pulmonary embolism. In children, femur fractures often occur due to falls from heights, while in adults, motor vehicle and industrial accidents are common causes.
Tibia Fractures:
Tibia fractures occur due to direct, high-impact trauma, commonly seen in motor vehicle accidents. The tibia may also fracture from low-impact trauma if the lower leg is bent or twisted at a certain angle. Tibia fractures are prone to breaking through the skin, increasing the risk of infection and hindering normal healing. Sharp ends of broken tibia can cause damage to nearby nerves and blood vessels.
Fibula Fractures:
The fibula, located on the outside of the lower leg, often fractures concurrently with the tibia. It typically fractures from a direct blow to the leg’s side or extreme bending at the knee or ankle. While isolated fibula fractures generally don’t lead to long-term complications, in rare cases where segments of the bone are separated, nerve damage may occur, resulting in foot drop—a condition where the foot hangs at the ankle and drags along the ground.