X-Ray

X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation (like light); they are of higher energy, however, and can penetrate the body to form an image on film. Structures that are dense (such as bone) will appear white, air will be black, and other structures will be shades of gray depending on density. X-rays can provide information about obstructions, tumors, and other diseases, especially when coupled with the use of barium and air contrast within the bowel.

Fracture Types (1)

There are several types of bone fracture, including:

• Oblique - a fracture which goes at an angle to the axis
• Comminuted - a fracture of many relatively small fragments
• Spiral - a fracture which runs around the axis of the bone
• Compound - a fracture (also called open) which breaks the skin

Osteoclast

This picture shows a normal osteoclast. It is a large cell with separately identifiable, multiple nuclei. An osteoclast is one of the two types of cells that are needed to repair bone.

Fracture, Forearm - X-Ray

This X-ray shows broken (fractured) forearm bones (radius and ulna).

External Fixation Device

An external fixation device may be used to keep fractured bones stabilized and in alignment. The device can be adjusted externally to ensure the bones remain in an optimal position during the healing process. This device is commonly used in children and when the skin over the fracture has been damaged.

Fractures Across a Growth Plate

A green stick fracture is an incomplete fracture in a long bone of a child who has not finished growing. A fracture involving a growth plate (the cartilage plate near the end of the bone of a growing child where growth occurs) can lead to disturbances in growth of the bone, even if treated properly.

Internal Fixation Devices

An internal fixation device may be used to keep fractured bones stabilized and in alignment. The device is inserted surgically to ensure the bones remain in an optimal position during and after the healing process.

Fracture Types (2)

There are several types of bone fracture, including:

• Greenstick - an incomplete fracture in which the bone bends
• Transverse - a fracture that goes across the bone's axis
• Simple - a fracture which does not break the skin

Bone Fracture Repair - Series

Browse through a series of illustrations for Bone Fracture Repair.