Complications That May Arise After a Bone Fracture From an Accident

Tuesday, December 27, 2016

Complications That May Arise After a Bone Fracture From an Accident

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

Experienced Chicago Attorney Serving Victims of Bone Fractures Sustained in an Accident

One of the most common types of injuries following an accident is a bone fracture. Fractures are something that almost everyone will experience at least once in their lifetime.

While most of the time people heal from their fractures with little to no complications, they do have a significant risk for complication in some individuals. From acute to chronic, complications may result from the trauma of the accident, soft tissue damage, or other delayed issues.

The risk of complication obviously varies with the severity and area of the fracture. Also, the quality of care and management, as well as the complexity of the fracture, can determine the risk for complications.

If you have suffered from a fracture following an accident, it is important to understand what complications are possible and contact a physician right away if you experience any of them. If your accident was the result of someone’s negligence, it is equally imperative that you contact a car accident attorney regarding your injuries and losses.

What Complications Could You Experience Following a Bone Fracture?

• Vascular Damage – In some cases, a person may experience vascular damage, such as the disruption of blood to the femoral artery. A pelvic fracture, for example, is life-threatening and could damage the femoral artery – which will result in death if it is not treated properly and quickly.
• Loss of Mobility – Certain fractures may lead to a permanent or long-term loss of mobility. For example, a hip fracture in an older individual could never heal properly.
• Respiratory Issues – When a victim suffers from a fracture of bones in the chest, such as a rib, he or she could suffer from a pneumothorax or other breathing issues.
• Visceral Injuries – If the fracture protrudes into other organs, such as the lung or bladder, it can cause permanent organ damage.
• Nerves and Tissue Damages – Sometimes a fracture can lead to permanent damage to the surrounding tissues, nerves, and skin – depending on the severity of the break.
• Systemic Complications – These can include things like fat embolism, shock, sepsis, pneumonia, and an exacerbation of an underlying condition.
• Compartment Syndrome – This occurs when internal pressure within a closed off space compromises the body’s circulation and results in temporary or permanent damage to that area.
• Improper Bone Healing – Sometimes, the initial injury does not cause damage; instead, it is the healing process. If the fracture does not heal or is delayed from healing, the patient could suffer from other complications, including malunion. They may need surgery to repair the malunion.
• Myositis Ossificans – This occurs when the calcifications develop within the muscle and are often accompanied by a bone fracture. The condition can cause intense pain, tenderness, swelling, and muscle contractions.

Did You Suffer a Bone Fracture Due to a Preventable Accident?

If you or a loved one suffered a bone fracture due to someone’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. You will need to first speak with an attorney to have your claim assessed and determine the best possible route to take. In the event that you are successful, you may qualify for compensation for medical costs, future medical costs, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more.

Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with the injury team at Malman Law today by calling or filling out our online contact form with your questions.