Contents
Tibial Fractures: What You Need to Know
Published: Feb 28, 2024
Tibial fractures are common injuries that can happen to anyone, from athletes to the elderly. Understanding these fractures can help in recognizing symptoms and seeking timely treatment.
How Do Tibial Fractures Happen?
Tibial fractures occur due to both high and low energy trauma. High energy incidents like car accidents or skiing can cause complex fractures, while low energy activities like running or sports can lead to simpler fractures. These fractures are prevalent in both adults and children, each with unique causes and complications.
Complications of Tibial Fractures
Tibial fractures can lead to several complications, such as acute compartment syndrome, infection, and long-term pain. Open fractures are particularly risky, with higher chances of infection and chronic issues. Even sports-related fractures, although less severe, can sometimes lead to significant problems.
Diagnosing Tibial Fractures
Doctors typically use X-rays to diagnose tibial fractures, providing images of the bone structure. In complex cases, CT scans or MRI may be needed for a detailed view. Ultrasound is emerging as a tool in some settings, although it's not yet widely used for adult fractures.
Frequently Asked Questions
They result from both high energy impacts like crashes and low energy activities like sports.
Yes, they can lead to complications like infection or chronic pain.
X-rays are commonly used, and sometimes CT or MRI for complex cases.
Wrapping Up
Understanding tibial fractures and their complications is crucial for effective treatment and recovery.
References
- Albuquerque RP, Hara R, Prado J, et al. Epidemiological study on tibial plateau fractures at a level I trauma center. Acta Ortop Bras 2013; 21:109.
- Kohlprath R, Assal M, Uçkay I, et al. [Open fractures of the tibia in the adult: surgical treatment and complications]. Rev Med Suisse 2011; 7:2482, 2484.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?