Complex Fractures
About Complex Fractures
The term “complex fracture” describes a broken bone that is more severe than what is common or routine. Fractures are considered to be complex when:
- The fragments are comminuted (broken into many pieces)
- The soft tissues are severely damaged
- There is loss of bone due to severe trauma
- There is disruption of the articular surface (severe cartilage injury at a joint)
- There are multiple fractures at several levels in a single bone
- There is an associated joint dislocation
Complex Fracture Treatment Options
A variety of methods are available to stabilize complex fractures. These include a vast array of internal and external fixation devices.
Because of the complex nature of this area of orthopedics, choosing a surgeon who has substantial experience treating complex fractures is important.
Complex Fractures Treated by Dr. Brinker*
|
Anatomic Location |
Number of Surgical Cases |
|
|
Tibia |
335 |
|
|
Femur |
147 |
|
|
Knee |
128 |
|
|
Ankle |
152 |
|
|
Clavicle |
37 |
|
|
Humerus |
113 |
|
|
Shoulder |
32 |
|
|
Elbow |
30 |
|
|
Forearm/Wrist |
36 |
*This chart does not represent all of Dr. Brinker's Cases.
