A broken bone, or fracture, occurs when a force applied to a bone is stronger than the bone itself, causing it to crack or break. While often seen as a temporary inconvenience, an untreated fracture can lead to serious, even life-threatening, complications.
How Untreated Broken Bones Can Lead to Death
Untreated broken bones carry several risks that can become fatal without proper medical intervention. Severe internal bleeding is a primary risk, particularly with fractures of large bones like the femur (thigh bone) or pelvis. A fractured femur can lead to the loss of 1 to 2 liters of blood internally, while a pelvic fracture can result in even greater blood loss. This hemorrhage can cause hypovolemic shock, where the body lacks sufficient blood to pump to vital organs, leading to organ failure and death.
Open fractures, where the broken bone pierces the skin, present a serious threat due to infection. Exposed bone and surrounding tissue can become contaminated, leading to osteomyelitis, a severe bone infection. If untreated, bacteria can enter the bloodstream, causing sepsis, a systemic infection that can be fatal. Sepsis can trigger widespread inflammation, organ dysfunction, and septic shock, with mortality rates ranging from 25% to 50%.
Fractures of long bones can lead to fat embolism syndrome (FES). This occurs when fat globules from the bone marrow are released into the bloodstream following the injury. These fat emboli can travel to the lungs, causing acute respiratory distress, or to the brain, leading to neurological dysfunction. Severe FES cases can result in death, with mortality rates from 10% to 20%.
Immobility often accompanying a broken bone increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT involves blood clot formation, typically in the deep veins of the legs. If a clot breaks free, it can travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism (PE). A large PE can block blood flow to the lungs, leading to sudden death. The risk of DVT and PE is elevated in lower limb fractures or prolonged bed rest.
Certain fractures pose a direct threat to nearby organs. Rib fractures can puncture a lung, leading to a collapsed lung (pneumothorax) or bleeding into the chest (hemothorax). Pelvic fractures can damage internal organs like the bladder, intestines, or major blood vessels, causing internal bleeding, organ rupture, or infection.
Serious Non-Fatal Complications
Untreated or improperly treated broken bones can lead to severe long-term complications. Malunion occurs when the bone heals in an incorrect position, leading to deformity, chronic pain, or impaired limb function. Nonunion is when the bone fails to heal completely, resulting in a persistent gap between fragments and creating a “false joint” that causes instability and pain.
Untreated fractures can result in chronic pain and disability. Persistent pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion can severely impact daily activities, reducing quality of life and potentially leading to permanent physical limitations.
Sharp bone fragments can damage surrounding nerves or blood vessels. Nerve damage can lead to numbness, weakness, tingling, or paralysis. Damage to blood vessels can compromise limb blood flow, potentially leading to compartment syndrome. This dangerous condition involves pressure buildup in muscles, cutting off blood supply and causing tissue death if not treated urgently.
Osteomyelitis, a severe bone infection, can become a chronic and debilitating condition if not aggressively treated. Chronic osteomyelitis requires prolonged antibiotic therapy and often multiple surgical procedures to remove infected bone. This persistent infection can lead to ongoing pain, drainage, and bone loss.
The Importance of Prompt Medical Care
Recognizing broken bone symptoms and seeking immediate medical attention is crucial. Common signs include severe pain worsening with movement, swelling, bruising, and visible limb deformity. An audible snap or grinding sound may occur, and the person might be unable to bear weight or move the limb normally.
Immediate medical attention allows accurate fracture diagnosis. Once diagnosed, appropriate treatment can stabilize the bone and ensure proper healing. This early intervention helps prevent serious complications like internal bleeding, infection, and blood clot formation.
While awaiting medical help, immobilize the injured limb to prevent further damage. Applying ice can reduce pain and swelling. Prompt medical care is essential for a full recovery and to avoid severe, lasting consequences from an untreated fracture.