Spiral fracture

Spiral fracture
Other names: Torsion fracture
An x-ray image of a spiral fracture to the left humerus of a 27-year-old male. The injury was sustained during a fall.
SpecialtyOrthopedics
Differential diagnosisTorus fracture, Salter-Harris fracture

Spiral fracture is a fracture that may occur when a rotating force is applied along the axis of a bone.[1]

They often occur when the body is in motion while one extremity is planted. For example, a spiral fracture of the tibia (the shinbone) can occur in young children when they fall short on an extended leg while jumping. This is known as a toddler's fracture. Other possible causes include non accidental trauma and osteogenesis imperfecta (OI).[2]

Diagnosis

  • Internal rotation view showing a spiral fracture at junction of middle and distal thirds of humerus.
    Internal rotation view showing a spiral fracture at junction of middle and distal thirds of humerus.

References

  1. ↑ "Spiral Fracture". Harvard University. Archived from the original on 8 August 2010. Retrieved 25 November 2010.
  2. ↑ Lukefahr M.D., James. "Child Abuse and Neglect Fractures". www.utmb.edu. University of Texas Health Science Center. Archived from the original on 26 August 2016. Retrieved 15 December 2014.

External links

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