Bony injuries

A fracture (broken bone) is normally the result of a traumatic injury and should be assessed and treated immediately.

Fractures are classified in to different groups according to the severity, stability, alignment and the specific bone that has been damaged. For example, the fracture may be extra-articular (away from the joint) or intra-articular (through the joint surface).

The aims of fracture treatment are to restore the anatomical positioning of the bone, ensure stability at the fracture site and regain movement and function. This sometimes requires surgery. Most fractures (including those that have been managed operatively) require a short period of immobilisation in a cast or splint, followed by specific early active movement to ensure the best functional outcome. The London HAND clinic uses a multi-disciplinary approach, calling on the skills of specialist hand surgeons and hand therapists, working together with the patient to achieve optimal fracture healing and upper limb function.

For further information about specific fractures from the British and American Societies for Surgery of the Hand, please follow the links below:

• Hand Fracture (BSSH)
• Scaphoid Fracture (ASSH)
• Wrist Fractures (ASSH)