Final - Elbow To Wrist Fractures

Colle's fracture is the most common distal radius fracture. It occurs when the distal radius is broken and displaced towards the back of the hand. This type of fracture is typically caused by a fall onto an outstretched hand. The displacement of the fracture causes a characteristic "dinner fork" deformity, where the wrist appears bent and the hand is angled towards the back. Colle's fracture is more common in elderly individuals with osteoporosis, but can also occur in younger individuals due to trauma or sports injuries.

The elbow joint is indeed responsible for providing support during weightbearing or postural activities when the arm is extended. This is because the elbow joint consists of the humerus, ulna, and radius bones, along with various ligaments and muscles that work together to stabilize the joint and allow for movement. When the arm is extended, the elbow joint helps to distribute the weight and maintain balance, making the statement true.

Scaphoid fractures make up about 60% of cases

A triquetreum facture is a type of wrist fracture that is commonly caused by hyperextending the wrist while it is in ulnar deviation. This means that when the wrist is bent backwards and towards the pinky side of the hand, it can put excessive stress on the triquetrum bone in the wrist, leading to a fracture. Therefore, the statement that a triquetreum facture is usually caused by hyperextending the wrist while it is in ulnar deviation is true.

For a supracondylar fracture in the distal humerus, the elbow joint is usually immobilized at a 90-degree angle. This angle helps to stabilize the fracture and promote proper healing by reducing stress on the injured area. By immobilizing the elbow at 90 degrees, it allows for optimal alignment of the fracture fragments and minimizes the risk of further damage or displacement. This position also helps to prevent contractures and stiffness in the joint during the healing process.

A Smith's fracture involves volar displacement of the hand or distal segment. This means that the hand or distal segment is displaced towards the palm side of the hand. It is a type of fracture that occurs when there is a break in the radius bone of the forearm, specifically in the articulating surface, along with a displacement of the carpals.

A Colle's fracture involves dorsal displacement of the hand or distal segment. This means that the fracture occurs in the distal radius and the hand or wrist is displaced towards the back of the forearm. This type of fracture is commonly seen in older individuals who fall onto an outstretched hand, causing the radius to break and the hand to be pushed backwards. The characteristic deformity of a Colle's fracture is a "dinner fork" appearance of the wrist, with the hand bent backwards.

A Barton's fracture involves a fracture in the articulating surface of the radius along with a dislocation of the carpals. This means that there is a break in the bone where it connects to the wrist joint, and the bones of the wrist are also displaced from their normal position.

ORIF stands for Open Reduction and Internal Fixation. It is a surgical procedure used to treat complex fractures of the elbow joint. In this procedure, the fracture is first reduced or realigned, and then internal fixation devices such as screws, plates, or rods are used to stabilize the bones and promote proper healing. ORIF is often preferred for complex fractures as it allows for more precise alignment of the bones and provides better stability compared to non-surgical methods like closed reduction or external fixation.

Usually not immobilized and the pt can be moved early in a protective sling.

The normal "carrying angle" range in the upper arm and forearm is 5-15 degrees. This angle refers to the natural angle formed between the humerus bone in the upper arm and the ulna bone in the forearm. It allows for proper alignment and movement of the arm, facilitating activities such as carrying objects.

During the immobilization stage of a wrist/elbow fracture, it is important to implement various techniques to manage the condition. AROM (Active Range of Motion) of uninvolved joints is necessary to maintain mobility and prevent stiffness. Tendon gliding exercises help to maintain tendon function and prevent adhesions. Edema control techniques such as elevation and compression aid in reducing swelling. Wound care is essential to prevent infection and promote healing. Assessing peripheral nerve involvement ensures early detection of any nerve damage. Pain control techniques help to manage discomfort. These techniques collectively contribute to the successful management of a wrist/elbow fracture during the immobilization stage.

During the S/P Immobilization stage of a wrist/elbow fracture, scar management is important to prevent excessive scar tissue formation and promote optimal healing. PAMs (Physical Agent Modalities) such as heat or cold therapy, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound can be used to reduce pain and inflammation, improve circulation, and promote tissue healing. Joint mobilization helps to restore normal joint range of motion and prevent stiffness. Functional activities to increase AROM (Active Range of Motion) and strength are necessary to regain functional abilities. Resistance exercises help in muscle strengthening. Self-PROM (Self-Passive Range of Motion) exercises can be performed by the patient themselves to improve joint mobility.