Fracture Care & Management in Wakad, Pune

Fractures are not all the same; they vary greatly in severity and complexity. A 'simple' or closed fracture means the bone is broken but the skin remains intact. Conversely, a 'compound' or open fracture involves a bone breaking through the skin, carrying a high risk of infection. 'Comminuted' fractures occur when the bone shatters into three or more pieces, often requiring surgical fixation. 'Stress' fractures are tiny cracks in the bone caused by repetitive force, commonly seen in athletes. Finally, 'pathological' fractures happen when a bone is weakened by a pre-existing disease, such as osteoporosis or a tumor, causing it to break under minimal stress.

Immediate first aid is critical in minimizing damage and pain following an injury. The key steps include immobilizing the injured area, applying ice packs to reduce swelling, and keeping the limb elevated above the heart level if possible. Do not attempt to realign the bone yourself. You should visit our clinic for suspected fractures involving localized severe pain, swelling, or inability to bear weight. However, if you suspect a compound fracture (bone visible through skin), experience severe bleeding, or suspect a spinal injury, you should proceed immediately to a hospital emergency department.

Upon arrival at Star Ortho, rapid and accurate assessment is our priority. Dr. Kalekar performs a thorough clinical examination, including a vital neurovascular check to ensure nerves and blood vessels surrounding the injury are intact. We meticulously evaluate the extent of soft tissue swelling and skin condition. Our clinic is equipped with digital X-ray facilities that allow for immediate visualization of the bone architecture, helping us determine the precise location and alignment of the fracture. In cases of complex fractures involving joint surfaces or multiple bone fragments, we may coordinate a CT scan for detailed 3D surgical planning.

Fracture treatment depends on the type, location, and severity of the break. Many stable fractures are managed conservatively through closed reduction (realigning the bone without surgery) followed by immobilization using Plaster of Paris (POP) casts, synthetic casts, or custom splinting. When a fracture is displaced, unstable, or involves a joint, surgical intervention becomes necessary. Dr. Kalekar is highly experienced in advanced surgical techniques, including Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) utilizing specialized plates and screws, as well as intramedullary nailing, where a rod is placed inside the bone canal to stabilize long bone fractures efficiently.

Healing the bone is only the first part of the journey; restoring function is equally important. Once the fracture shows signs of clinical healing, our structured rehabilitation phase begins. This involves progressive physiotherapy stages to combat the stiffness and muscle atrophy that accompany immobilization. We provide clear, gradual weight-bearing protocols tailored to your specific injury and surgery type. Our comprehensive rehab planning ensures a safe and confident return to your daily activities, work responsibilities, and eventually, sports and physically demanding hobbies.

Answers to common concerns about fracture healing and management.

• How long does a fracture take to heal? Generally 6 to 8 weeks, but full functional recovery takes longer.
• Can fractures be treated without surgery? Yes, stable fractures are often treated with casts or splints.
• What is POP? Plaster of Paris, a material used to create hard casts for immobilization.
• When can I return to work? It depends on your job's physical demands and the fracture type.
• How do I know my fracture has healed? Absence of pain, ability to bear weight, and X-ray confirmation of new bone.