Pathological fracture, right tibia digital illustration

Pathological fracture, right tibia Save


ICD-10 code: M84.461

Chapter: Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue

Pathological fracture, right tibia

A pathological fracture is a break in a bone that is caused by a disease or condition that weakens the bone. In the case of a pathological fracture of the right tibia, the break occurs in the lower leg bone on the right side of the body due to a weakened bone caused by a disease or condition.

There are several conditions that can cause a pathological fracture, including osteoporosis, cancer, Paget's disease, and osteogenesis imperfecta. These conditions can cause the bones to become weak and brittle, making them more susceptible to fractures.

Symptoms of a pathological fracture may include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected limb. Treatment for a pathological fracture typically involves immobilization of the affected limb using a cast or brace, and sometimes surgery may be necessary to repair the fracture.

Causes of Pathological Fractures

As mentioned earlier, there are several conditions that can cause a pathological fracture. Osteoporosis is one of the most common causes of pathological fractures, particularly in older adults. This condition causes the bones to become thin and weak, making them more likely to break with even minor trauma.

Cancer that has spread to the bones can also weaken the bone and make it more susceptible to fractures. Paget's disease is another condition that can cause pathological fractures. This condition causes the bones to become enlarged and brittle, making them more prone to breaking.

Osteogenesis imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease, is a genetic condition that causes the bones to be fragile and easily broken. This condition is usually diagnosed in childhood and can cause multiple fractures throughout a person's life.

Treatment for Pathological Fractures

The goal of treatment for a pathological fracture is to relieve pain, promote healing, and prevent further complications. Immobilization of the affected limb is usually the first step in treatment, and this may involve a cast, brace, or splint depending on the severity of the fracture.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the fracture and stabilize the bone. This may involve the use of plates, screws, or other devices to hold the bone in place while it heals.

Physical therapy may also be recommended to help restore mobility and strength to the affected limb once the fracture has healed.

  1. Conclusion

If you have been diagnosed with a pathological fracture of the right tibia or any other bone, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Prompt treatment can help relieve pain, promote healing, and prevent further complications. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best treatment options for your specific condition.