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Femoral Fracture

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition

Femoral Fracture

(Femur Fracture; Thigh Bone Fracture; Broken Leg)

Definition

A femoral fracture is a break in the thigh bone. This is the bone that runs from the hip to the knee.

Femoral Fracture.

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Causes

A femoral fracture is caused by trauma from:

  • A motor vehicle accident
  • Falls
  • A blow
  • Gunshot wounds
  • Stress on a weakened bone

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of a femoral fracture are:

  • Having a health problem that may result in falls, such as weak muscles
  • Playing contact sports, such as football
  • Playing sports that require repetitive motion, such as running
  • Being around violence

Symptoms

Symptoms of a femoral fracture may be:

  • Pain and swelling
  • Problems standing or moving
  • Changes in the way the leg looks

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask symptoms and health history. You will also be asked how the injury happened. A physical exam will be done. It will focus on the leg. A diagnosis may be made based on appearance. X-rays or a CT scan may be needed to see how severe the break is or if soft tissue was injured.

Treatment

It will take 4 to 6 months for a femoral fracture to heal. Most people will need surgery. The surgery is often done within 1 to 2 days. The bone is attached to powerful muscles and may need support to keep the bone pieces in place. Long pins, plates, or screws can help support the bone as it heals.

External fixation may also be needed for severe breaks. It uses metal bars and screws outside of the body to help keep bones stable. The device will be removed as the bone heals.

Prevention

Most femoral fractures are due to accidents. Always wear a seatbelt.

Healthy bones and muscles may also prevent injury. This may be done through diet and exercise.

Movement

Early movement can lower the risk of problems and speed healing. Bearing weight on the leg will depend on how severe the fracture is and what support has been attached to the bone. The surgeon will make a schedule for activity. Walkers or crutches may be needed.

Muscles weakness and imbalance are common after a femur fracture. Physical therapy may help regain strength and movement.

Children's bones have growth plates that let bones grow and harden with age. A child with a fracture may need to be checked over time to make sure the bone heals the right way and keeps growing.

RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Femoral shaft fracture—emergency management. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/management/femoral-shaft-fracture-emergency-management.
  • Femoral stress fracture. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/femoral-stress-fracture.
  • Femur shaft fractures (broken thighbone). Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/femur-shaft-fractures-broken-thighbone.

Contributors

  • Warren A. Bodine, DO, CAQSM
Last Updated:
2022-09-01

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.