Femur Neck Fracture: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and More
Proximal femoral fractures, or fractures that occur in the upper part of the femur bone, can cause significant pain, discomfort, and mobility issues. A femur neck fracture is one of the types of proximal femoral fractures, and it occurs when there is a break in the neck of the femur bone, which connects the femoral head and the femoral shaft. This type of fracture is common among older adults, and it can have a significant impact on their quality of life.
What is a femur neck fracture?
A femur neck fracture is a break in the neck of the femur, which is the part of the bone that connects the head of the femur to the shaft of the femur. The neck of the femur is a small, narrow bone that is prone to fractures, especially in older adults.
What are the three types of femoral neck fractures?
The three types of femoral neck fractures are:
- Non-displaced fractures: These fractures do not move out of alignment.
- Partially displaced fractures: These fractures move slightly out of alignment.
- Completely displaced fractures: These fractures are completely out of alignment.
What is the best treatment for femoral neck fracture?
The best treatment for a femoral neck fracture depends on the type and severity of the fracture. Non-displaced fractures may be treated with non-surgical methods, such as pain medication, crutches, and physical therapy. However, most femoral neck fractures require surgery to repair the break.
The type of surgery that is performed will depend on the specific fracture. However, some common surgical procedures for femoral neck fractures include:
- Internal fixation: This involves using screws, plates, or nails to hold the bones in place.
- Hip arthroplasty: This involves replacing the hip joint with a prosthetic joint.
What is the gold standard for neck of femur fracture?
The gold standard for neck of femur fracture is surgery. This is because non-surgical treatment is often unsuccessful and can lead to complications, such as avascular necrosis of the femoral head.
Which artery is damaged in femoral neck fracture?
The medial femoral circumflex artery is the main artery that supplies blood to the femoral neck. If this artery is damaged during a femoral neck fracture, it can lead to avascular necrosis of the femoral head.
What are the common causes of fractured neck of femur?
The most common causes of fractured neck of femur are:
- Falls: Falls are the most common cause of femoral neck fractures, especially in older adults.
- Trauma: Femoral neck fractures can also be caused by trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident or a fall from a height.
- Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, making them more likely to fracture.
What are the complications of femur neck fracture?
The complications of femur neck fracture can include:
- Avascular necrosis: This is a condition in which the blood supply to the femoral head is cut off, leading to the death of bone tissue.
- Nonunion: This is a condition in which the fracture does not heal properly.
- Post-traumatic arthritis: This is a type of arthritis that can develop after a femoral neck fracture.
- Pain: Pain is a common complication of femoral neck fracture, and it can be severe.
- Loss of mobility: Femoral neck fractures can often lead to a loss of mobility, making it difficult to walk or perform other activities.
What is the most common complication of a femur fracture?
The most common complication of a femur fracture is avascular necrosis. This is a condition in which the blood supply to the femoral head is cut off, leading to the death of bone tissue. Avascular necrosis can occur in any type of femur fracture, but it is most common in femoral neck fractures.
What is the most common site of femur fracture?
The most common site of femur fracture is the proximal femur, which is the upper part of the thighbone. The proximal femur includes the femoral neck, the femoral head, and the trochanters.
What are two complications of fracture?
The two most common complications of fracture are infection and nonunion. Infection can occur at the site of the fracture, and it can lead to serious complications, such as sepsis. Nonunion is a condition in which the fracture does not heal properly. This can lead to pain, loss of mobility, and other problems.
What is the most common type of femur fracture?
The most common type of femur fracture is the transcervical fracture. This type of fracture occurs at the neck of the femur, and it is the most common type of femoral neck fracture.
Conclusion
Femur neck fractures are a serious injury, but they can be treated successfully. If you think that you may have a femur neck fracture, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to improve your chances of a good recovery.