Humerus Fracture Complications
Humerus Fracture Complications. The arms are some of the most vulnerable parts of the body, and they are easily injured in many different accidents. These can include bicycle accidents, car accidents, or even a simple slip and fall accident. According to some of the statistics which have been published by Ohio State University:
- There are more than 6 million people in the United States who suffer a bone fracture annually
- There are three different bones in the arm that can be broken which are the humerus, the radius, and the ulna
- In the adult population, fractures of the arm account for about half of all bone fractures
- In children, fractures of the arm are second to fractures of the collarbone
- Fractures of the arm occur either from slip and fall injuries or from direct trauma
When someone slips and falls, they often extend their hands out in front of them to protect their chest and abdomen. The force is often transmitted through the hand and into the arm, leading to a fracture. Direct trauma to the arm is often found in a bicycle or car accident when a hard surface strikes the arm directly. The largest bone in the arm is called the humerus. There are lots of different humerus fracture complications that might develop.
Complications from a Broken Humerus
The complications of a humerus fracture can be extensive, and it is essential for everyone to understand some of the most common consequences. Examples of these include:
Malunion: This is one of the most common complications of almost all bone fractures. Malunion occurs when a broken bone does not heal in the proper location. This can occur if a bone fragment has been displaced and is not put back in it’s proper location before it starts to heal. This can lead to chronic pain, a reduction in the range of motion of the bone, and a loss in functionality.
Nerve Damage: This can happen with a humerus fracture because numerous nerves pass near the bone. A bone fragment could sever one or more of these nerves, leading to a loss of motor and sensory function. Examples of possible nerve injuries include the radial nerve, ulnar nerve, and other members of the brachial plexus.
Avascular Necrosis: Another possible complication is called avascular necrosis of the head of the humerus. This can occur if a bone fragment cuts through the blood supply of the humeral head. This could lead to severe pain and a possible trip to an operating room.
How a Legal Advisor Can Help
A humerus fracture from an accident can lead to numerous complications. This might make it hard for someone to return to the same quality of life that they had before the injury. There can be mounting medical bills, missed time from work, and problems at school. Because of this, it is helpful to seek out a personal injury lawyer in Sacramento to review the accident. An experienced attorney can make sure that none of the details have been overlooked to protect your right to financial compensation.
Related Articles by Edward A. Smith:
Sacramento Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento Personal Injury Lawyer. A humerus fracture from an accident can lead to severe, life-changing complications. If a car accident has left you or a loved one with serious injuries, call me at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400. I would be happy to offer you free, friendly legal advice for your situation.
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