SPIRAL FRACTURE Meaning and
Definition
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A spiral fracture is a type of bone fracture characterized by a unique pattern of breakage where the bone has been twisted and pulled apart. It typically occurs when there is a rotational force applied to the bone, causing it to break in a spiral or helical pattern around its axis. This type of fracture often extends along the length of the bone and may be more pronounced in the long bones of the arms and legs.
A spiral fracture can result from various causes, including traumatic incidents such as a fall, direct impact, sports injuries, or motor vehicle accidents. The twisting motion exerts significant torque on the bone, leading to the formation of a spiral fracture. This type of fracture can be particularly problematic as it may cause instability and displacement of the bone fragments.
Common symptoms of a spiral fracture include severe pain at the site of the break, swelling, bruising, difficulty bearing weight or using the affected limb, and visibly deformed or misaligned bone fragments. Diagnosis of a spiral fracture typically involves a physical examination, medical history assessment, and imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans.
Treatment for spiral fractures primarily involves realigning the broken bone fragments and immobilizing them with the use of splints, casts, or surgical fixation. The choice of treatment depends on the severity and location of the fracture. Rehabilitation exercises and physical therapy may also be recommended to restore functionality and strength to the affected limb following the healing process.
Prompt medical attention and appropriate treatment are essential to ensure proper healing and minimize complications associated with spiral fractures, such as nerve or blood vessel damage, infection, or malunion (improper alignment of bone fragments during healing).
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One in which the line of break runs obliquely up one side of the bone.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SPIRAL FRACTURE
- apiral fracture
- zpiral fracture
- xpiral fracture
- dpiral fracture
- epiral fracture
- wpiral fracture
- soiral fracture
- sliral fracture
- s-iral fracture
- s0iral fracture
- spural fracture
- spjral fracture
- spkral fracture
- sporal fracture
- sp9ral fracture
- sp8ral fracture
- spieal fracture
- spidal fracture
- spital fracture
- spi5al fracture
Etymology of SPIRAL FRACTURE
The word "spiral" in "spiral fracture" refers to the spiral or helical shape of the fracture line. When a bone breaks due to a twisting or rotational force, the fracture line often encircles the bone, creating a spiral shape. This type of fracture commonly occurs in long bones like the femur or tibia. The term "spiral fracture" originated from the observation of this particular fracture pattern.
