Femur fracture

A fracture of the femur is one of the most serious injuries and requires timely diagnosis and comprehensive treatment.

The Oxford Medical Center in Kyiv operates a 24/7 trauma unit. It is equipped with a modern digital X-ray system, which allows immediate identification of the fracture and assessment of its severity.

If you suspect a femur fracture, you should see a doctor immediately. You can schedule an appointment by phone or through the online form on our website.

If such symptoms are present, it is important not to delay seeking medical attention, as early diagnosis reduces the risk of complications and facilitates further treatment.

In traumatology, femoral fractures are classified according to several clinically significant criteria. This classification is essential for choosing the treatment method, predicting outcomes, and planning rehabilitation.

By fracture location

• Fracture of the proximal femur. Includes femoral neck fractures, intertrochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures. Most common in older patients.
• Diaphyseal femoral fracture. Injury to the femoral shaft, usually associated with severe trauma.
• Distal femoral fracture. Located near the knee joint and may be combined with intra-articular injuries.

By skin integrity

• Closed fracture. The skin over the fracture site is intact.
• Open fracture. There is a wound with bone fragments exposed, increasing the risk of infection.

By presence of displacement

• Without displacement. Bone fragments maintain their correct anatomical position.
• With displacement. Bone fragments shift relative to the axis of the bone, complicating healing and requiring longer treatment.

By fracture line pattern

• Transverse. The fracture line runs perpendicular to the axis of the bone.
• Oblique. The fracture line is angled relative to the bone axis.
• Spiral. Caused by a twisting mechanism.
• Comminuted. The bone is broken into several fragments.

By fracture stability

• Stable. After reduction, the fragments maintain relative anatomical stability.
• Unstable. Characterized by a high risk of secondary displacement and complicated healing.

This classification of femoral fractures allows the physician to objectively assess the severity of the injury, identify potential risks, and select the most effective treatment strategy.

Evaluation for a suspected femoral fracture begins with an examination by an orthopedic trauma specialist. The doctor assesses the patient’s complaints, pain intensity, limb position and mobility, the presence of deformity, swelling, or leg shortening, as well as the general condition of the patient. At this stage, the probable location of the injury and the need for imaging studies are determined.

The main method of confirming the diagnosis is radiography. In the case of a femur fracture, an X-ray allows you to accurately determine the fact of the fracture, its localization, the nature of the fracture line, the presence and degree of displacement of fragments. The images are usually performed in two projections, and if joint damage is suspected, an X-ray of the pelvis with the capture of the hip or an X-ray of the knee joint is performed.

In complex clinical cases, additional diagnostic methods may be required. Computed tomography (CT) is used for detailed assessment of comminuted or intra-articular fractures, as well as for surgical planning. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used when occult fractures or soft-tissue, ligament, or vascular injuries are suspected.

A comprehensive diagnostic approach makes it possible to accurately identify the type of fracture, detect complications in time, and choose the optimal treatment strategy according to clinical protocols.

Rehabilitation begins as early as possible, often within the first days after fracture stabilization or surgery. It is critically important for restoring limb function and preventing complications.
 Rehabilitation includes:

• gradual mobilization and training in safe movement;
• therapeutic exercise to restore muscle strength and range of motion;
• physiotherapy (as recommended by the doctor);
• controlled weight-bearing with gradual increase as healing progresses.

Following all medical recommendations is essential for faster fracture healing and successful recovery, enabling the patient to return to an active lifestyle.

A femoral fracture may lead to several long-term consequences even after complete bone healing. Their severity depends on the fracture type, the quality of initial treatment, the timeliness of surgical intervention, and the completeness of rehabilitation.
 Possible consequences:

• Limited mobility of the hip or knee joint. Prolonged immobilization and insufficient physical activity during recovery may lead to reduced range of motion, muscle weakness, and quick fatigue when walking.
• Development of chronic pain syndrome. Pain is often associated with post-traumatic joint changes, altered limb biomechanics, or secondary osteoarthritis. The risk increases with displaced fractures or improper timing of weight-bearing.
• Avascular necrosis of the femoral head. Especially common after femoral neck fractures in older adults due to impaired blood supply. In such cases, hip arthroplasty may be required.
• Limb shortening or altered limb axis. Occurs when fragments heal improperly. This can result in gait abnormalities, spinal overload, and increased stress on the joints of the lower limbs.
• General reduction in physical activity. After severe trauma, patients may experience decreased muscle mass, reduced endurance, and higher cardiovascular risk, which affects overall quality of life.

Following medical advice, attending regular check-ups, and completing full rehabilitation significantly reduce the risk of long-term complications. A systematic approach to treatment and recovery is key to maintaining mobility in the future.

The cost of treating a femoral fracture depends on the severity of the injury, the fracture location, the presence of fragment displacement, and the chosen treatment strategy. The price is influenced by the volume of diagnostic procedures, the need for surgery, and inpatient monitoring.

You can review prices and learn about available medical services in Kyiv offered by the private clinic Oxford Medical on our website.
 More detailed information about the treatment plan and its cost will be provided by a trauma surgeon after examination and evaluation of the patient’s condition.

You can make an appointment for a consultation at a time convenient for you, using the phone or online appointment form. You can also contact our reception or emergency room at any time.