Intracapsular Hip Fracture
There are multiple types of hip fractures. The hip, like other bones in the body, is divided into numerous parts. Some common types of hip fractures include an intracapsular hip fracture, a subtrochanteric hip fracture, and an intertrochanteric hip fracture. If someone has been diagnosed with a hip fracture in the intracapsular region, this can lead to severe complications down the road.
In an intracapsular hip fracture, the injury occurs at the neck of the femur. The neck of the femur is just beneath the head of the femur, which articulates with the hip joint. The fracture line often extends to the capsulate, which is located near the head of the femur. This capsule also contains a lot of fluid, which is used to lubricate the hip (reducing pain and friction) and also provides nutrients to the hip. All of this makes this injury serious.
Signs and Symptoms of an Intracapsular Hip Fracture
The symptoms of an intracapsular hip fracture are similar to other types of fractures in this location. Because the neck of the femur has been broken, the lengths of the two legs will appear unequal. This is due to muscles pulling on the bone fragments of the femoral neck, lifting this leg upward in comparison to the other side.
Individuals may also have significant bruising in and around the injury site. This can happen if some of the blood vessels that supply the hip and femur are torn. This is one of the complications of this type of hip fracture.
The Dangers of This Injury: A Loss of Blood Supply
One of the most significant medical concerns is a loss of blood supply to the hip. When the neck of the femur is broken, this can lead to a blood vessel tear in this region. These blood vessels supply oxygen and nutrients to the femur, the capsule, and the rest of the hip. As a result, the doctor will evaluate the blood supply of this region of the body with an intracapsular hip fracture.
To do this, the doctor is going to order a series of images. While this will include x-rays, an MRI might be needed to get a better look at the blood vessels. This provides a lot of valuable information for the orthopedic surgeon who will be planning the repair process.
The Treatment of This Hip Fracture
Following the diagnosis of this injury, the next step is the treatment. A significant percentage of these hip fractures will require surgical repair. The surgeon will be assessing the blood vessels that supply the hip and femur. In some cases, a vascular surgeon might be needed to repair these blood vessels.
Next, the surgeon is going to set the bones in the proper location. Plates and screws might be needed to hold these bones together. Then, the leg will be placed in a cast for several weeks while the injury heals. If repaired quickly, the prognosis of this injury is good.
Watch YouTube Video: Hip Fractures, Types and Fixation. The video below explains everything you need to know about hip fractures.
Sacramento Hip Fracture Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento Hip Fracture Injury Lawyer. An intracapsular hip fracture is a severe injury that might lead to major complications. If you have suffered a hip fracture due to the negligence of another person or entity, contact me at (800) 404-5400 and/or (916) 921-6400 to receive free, friendly legal guidance and advice.
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