Fractures and Orthopaedic Trauma
Accidents happen, and when they do, prompt and expert medical attention is essential for a successful recovery.
At Ortho ARC Brisbane, we offer a specialised Orthopaedic Trauma Care Service, dedicated to treating a variety of fracture, trauma and soft tissue injuries.
Our practice is committed to providing comprehensive care that emphasises timely intervention, effective treatment plans, and compassionate support throughout your recovery journey.
Upper Limb Fractures
Often known as collarbone fractures, these injuries commonly occur from falls or direct impacts. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty raising the arm. Treatment may involve immobilisation with a sling or, in severe cases, surgical intervention to realign the bone with a plate and screws.
Fractures of the upper arm bone can occur in the shoulder region (proximal humerus fractures), mid-shaft, or lower region (distal humerus fractures). Humerus fractures can result from falls or sports injuries, leading to pain, limited mobility, and swelling. Treatment options range from conservative management with slings and braces, to surgical fixation with rods inside the bones, or plates and screws.
These include fractures of the radius and ulna:
- Colles' Fracture: A common type of distal radius fracture resulting from a fall onto an outstretched hand, often seen in older adults. It presents with a characteristic "dinner fork" appearance of the wrist.
- Smith’s Fracture: An injury involving a fracture of the distal radius with palmar displacement, commonly caused by a fall onto a flexed wrist.
- Both Bone Forearm Fractures: Fracturing both the radius and ulna typically occurs from high-energy impacts. Treatment often involves surgical intervention to restore alignment and stability.
This category includes various fractures in the carpal bones, often resulting from falls.
- Scaphoid Fracture: A common injury from wrist trauma, particularly in young adults. These fractures can be challenging to diagnose and may require special imaging, often an MRI scan.
- Lunate and Triquetrum Fractures: Less common but may occur in severe wrist injuries; proper assessment and treatment are crucial to prevent complications.
These involve the bones of the fingers and metacarpals.
- Boxer’s Fracture: A fracture of the fifth metacarpal due to punching something.
- Phalangeal Fractures: Involving the bones of fingers and toes, usually resulting from direct trauma.
Lower Limb Fractures
Commonly seen in older adults, hip fractures typically occur from falls. The fracture can occur in the femoral neck, intertrochanteric region, or subtrochanteric area. These injuries may require surgical intervention to restore mobility and prevent complications, often through hip replacement or internal fixation.
- Proximal Femur Fractures: These fractures at the hip joint are often due to falls, especially in the elderly.
- Distal Femur Fractures: These fractures can occur from trauma or falls and often require surgical intervention to align the bone and promote healing.
- Patella Fractures: Fractures of the kneecap can occur due to direct trauma, falls, or severe knee bends. Treatment may involve immobilisation or surgical fixation depending on the fracture type.
- Tibial Shaft Fractures: Common in various age groups, these extensive fractures may arise from sports injuries or falls. They often require surgical alignment due to the stress placed on the leg during weight-bearing.
- Fibula Fractures: Frequently associated with tibial injuries and may occur in isolation; treatment depends on the fracture's location and stability.
These can involve multiple bones and ligaments around the joint and often result from twisting injuries or falls:
- Lateral Malleolus Fracture: Involves the fibula on the outside of the ankle, common in ankle sprains.
- Medial Malleolus Fracture: Involves the tibia on the inside of the ankle, often necessitating surgical intervention for stabilisation.
- Bimalleolar and Trimalleolar Fractures: Involve both malleoli and may require surgical management to safely restore the integrity of the ankle joint.
- Stress Fractures: Often seen in athletes or individuals who engage in high-impact activities, stress fractures in the lower limb (especially in the tibia and metatarsals) occur as a result of repetitive stress. These fractures can be subtle and may require a period of rest and modification of activities for proper healing.
About Dr Blake Fidock
MBBS (Hons. 1), MTrauma (Ortho), FRACS (Ortho), FAOrthA
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Comprehensive Fracture Management
At Ortho ARC Brisbane, we prioritise a holistic approach to fracture management that encompasses the following:
Each patient receiving treatment for a fracture undergoes a thorough evaluation, including a detailed physical examination and imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, CT scans, or MRI) to accurately determine the fracture type and extent.
Based on the specific fracture and individual patient needs, we design a personalised treatment plan. This may include:
- Non-Surgical Options: For non-displaced fractures or those that can heal with immobilisation, we may recommend casts, braces, or splints alongside a rehabilitation program.
- Surgical Intervention: For complex or displaced fractures that require stabilisation, surgery may be necessary. Dr Blake Fidock utilises advanced techniques such as:
- Internal Fixation: Restructuring bones with plates, screws, or rods for optimal alignment and healing.
- External Fixation: A method that stabilises fractures through external devices, particularly useful for severe injuries with soft tissue damage.
After initial treatment, a structured rehabilitation program is vital for a successful recovery. Our dedicated physical therapy specialists guide patients through exercises designed to restore strength, range of motion, and functionality to the affected limb.
At our practice, we believe in a patient-centred approach. From your initial consultation to your post-operative care, we prioritise clear communication and collaboration.
Why chose Ortho ARC Brisbane for my Trauma and Fracture Care?
- Expertise and Experience: With years of specialised training in trauma and fracture care, Dr Blake Fidock is equipped to handle both routine and complex orthopaedic injuries. He has established Ortho ARC Brisbane to allow this care to be delivered throughout his whole medical practice.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: Ortho ARC Brisbane utilises the latest imaging and surgical technologies to ensure accurate diagnoses and successful outcomes.
- Comprehensive Care: From emergency care to postoperative rehabilitation, we provide a full spectrum of services to support your recovery.
- Compassionate Support: We understand that trauma and fractures can be distressing experiences. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing emotional support as well as medical care.
Final Comments
Trauma and fractures require specialised care to ensure effective healing and to reduce the risk of complications. With Dr Blake Fidock and his team at Ortho ARC Brisbane at your side, you can feel confident that you are receiving expert treatment tailored to your individual needs. We look forward to partnering with you on your journey to recovery and helping you return to a fulfilling, active lifestyle.
Contact us today
and take the first steps in your journey to
Experiencing Relief, and Regaining Your Mobility