Expert care for broken bones, from plaster casts to surgical fixation of complex fractures, with physiotherapy to help you regain strength and movement.
Overview
A fracture is a break in a bone. Treatment aims to put the broken pieces in the right position and hold them steady while the bone heals, then restore movement and strength.
Simple, well-aligned fractures may heal in a plaster cast or splint. Displaced, unstable or complex fractures, and fractures involving joints, often need surgery in which the bone is fixed with plates, screws, nails or wires. Our orthopaedic team, emergency department and operation theatres work round the clock to treat injuries quickly.
Who needs this treatment?
- Pain, swelling, deformity or inability to move a limb after a fall or accident
- Fractures seen on X-ray or CT scan
- Fractures in children, which need special attention to growth plates
- Fractures in elderly people with weak bones (osteoporosis), such as hip and wrist fractures
Benefits
- Correct alignment for proper healing and function
- Surgical fixation allows earlier movement in many fractures
- Lower risk of long-term stiffness, deformity or arthritis
- Coordinated care with physiotherapy for a full recovery
How it is done
Before the procedure
The injury is examined, X-rays or CT scans are done, and pain relief is given. The limb is splinted to prevent further damage.
During the procedure
Some fractures are set by gently moving the bone into place under anaesthesia and applying a cast. Others need an operation to fix the bone with implants.
After the procedure
You will receive advice on wound care, cast care and how much weight you can put on the limb. Follow-up X-rays check that the bone is healing.
Recovery and aftercare
Healing time depends on the bone, the type of fracture, your age and general health. Many fractures take six weeks to three months to unite.
- Keep the cast dry and do not push objects inside it
- Raise the limb to reduce swelling
- Seek help urgently for severe pain, numbness, colour change of fingers or toes, or a tight cast
- Start physiotherapy as advised to regain movement
Frequently asked questions
Most plates and screws can stay in the body permanently. They are removed only if they cause problems or in certain situations, such as in young patients.
Muscles weaken and joints stiffen while a fracture heals. Physiotherapy restores movement, strength and balance so you can return to your normal activities.
This page gives general information. Whether a treatment is right for you, and what it involves, depends on your condition; your doctor will explain the options after examining you.