How long does it take for a compound fracture of the ankle to heal?

How long does it take for a compound fracture of the ankle to heal?

You can expect most ankle fractures depending on how severe they are, to take 4-8 weeks for the bones to heal completely and up to several months to regain full use and range of motion of the joint. More severe fractures, especially those requiring surgical repair, may take longer to heal.

How serious is a compound fracture of the ankle?

The quick answer, a compound ankle fracture can be debilitating and needs medical attention. Ankle injuries are among the most common types of injuries, ranging from sprains to fractures.

What is a compound fracture ankle?

An open fracture, also called a compound fracture, is a fracture in which there is an open wound or break in the skin near the site of the broken bone. Most often, this wound is caused by a fragment of bone breaking through the skin at the moment of the injury.

Does a compound fracture require surgery?

In addition to concerns about infection, compound fractures are at high risk for not healing in a timely fashion or requiring additional surgery to promote healing.

Is a compound fracture worse than a break?

Compound fractures are more serious than simple fractures. They can be more painful, require additional treatments, and take longer to heal. Most compound fractures require surgical intervention during treatment, where the doctors will repair the fracture in the bone.

Can you fully recover from a compound fracture?

Generally speaking, a fracture may need as little as 4-6 weeks for the bone to heal. Compound fractures, however, are much more complicated and may take several more weeks or months to properly heal.

How is an open compound fracture treated?

Take these actions immediately while waiting for medical help:

  1. Stop any bleeding. Apply pressure to the wound with a sterile bandage, a clean cloth or a clean piece of clothing.
  2. Immobilize the injured area.
  3. Apply ice packs to limit swelling and help relieve pain.
  4. Treat for shock.

How is a compound fracture treated?

In most cases, the doctor will need to use rods, pins, screws, or metal plates to help hold the bone in place to heal. Since a fracture can also damage the surrounding skin, muscles, nerves, and arteries, the doctor will work to repair other tissue damage as well. Sometimes this requires multiple surgical procedures.

Is hairline fracture serious?

Hairline fractures are easily dealt with, but medical attention should be sought immediately to prevent the injury from worsening. Ignoring a hairline fracture can lead to a more serious fracture or break occurring, which is more difficult to treat.

What is the recovery time for a dislocated ankle?

Surgical reduction of the ankle joint dislocation often results in stiff ankle joint after prolonged joint immobilization. Stiff ankle joint often results in pain. Recovery period to complete healing of the dislocated ankle or ankle dislocation is about 6 to 8 weeks.

What causes broken ankle?

The most common causes of a broken ankle include: Car accidents. The crushing injuries common in car accidents may cause breaks that require surgical repair. Falls. Tripping and falling can break bones in your ankles, as can landing on your feet after jumping down from just a slight height.

What is treatment for compression fracture?

For the most part, nonoperative treatments are recommended for compression fracture. These treatments include pain medications and modified physical activity. The doctor may recommend wearing a brace that helps support the back and prevents bending forward, and therefore removes pressure from the fractured vertebrae.

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