Joint & Extremity
Fractures & Trauma
From simple fractures to complex reconstruction — expert trauma care.
Most fractures are 'simple' and heal predictably with the right care. But some — open fractures, periprosthetic fractures around existing implants, complex pelvic injuries, and previously failed fixation cases — require fellowship-trained orthopedic trauma expertise. Dr. Rahul Banerjee, our trauma specialist, is fellowship-trained in orthopedic trauma and has spent over two decades managing the cases other surgeons have declined.
Understanding the Condition
What is Fractures & Trauma?
Fractures are classified by location, pattern (transverse, oblique, spiral, comminuted), displacement, whether the skin is broken (open vs. closed), and whether there's associated nerve, vascular, or organ injury. The classification guides treatment: simple non-displaced fractures may need only a cast, while complex displaced fractures need surgical fixation with plates, screws, rods, or external fixators.
Nonunion (a fracture that hasn't healed at 6–9 months) and malunion (a fracture that healed in the wrong position) are particularly challenging and benefit from trauma subspecialty care. So do periprosthetic fractures — fractures around joint replacements — which combine fracture work with implant management.
Common Causes
- Falls (most common in older adults)
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Sports injuries
- Direct blows or crush injuries
- Osteoporosis (fragility fractures)
- Pathologic fractures (through tumor or weakened bone)
- Stress overload (stress fractures)
Common Symptoms
- Pain, especially with weight-bearing or movement
- Visible deformity or unusual limb position
- Swelling and bruising
- Inability to use the affected limb
- Open wound with bone visible (open fracture — emergency)
- Pulselessness, numbness, or pallor (vascular/nerve injury — emergency)
When to Seek Care
When Should You See a Specialist?
Acute fractures: go to the ER for stabilization, X-rays, and immediate care. Our trauma team takes over for definitive surgical fixation and follow-up. For nonunions, malunions, periprosthetic fractures, or complex revision cases, request direct referral to Dr. Banerjee.
Treatment Options
How We Treat Fractures & Trauma
We always begin with the least invasive treatment that's likely to work for you. Surgery is reserved for cases where conservative care has been given a fair trial — or when the situation truly requires it.
Conservative (Non-Surgical) Care
- Casting or splinting for stable non-displaced fractures
- Functional bracing for select fracture patterns
- Activity restriction and weight-bearing modifications
- Pain management
- Physical therapy after immobilization
- Bone health optimization (calcium, vitamin D, anti-resorptive therapy)
Surgical Options
- ORIF (open reduction internal fixation) with plates and screws
- Intramedullary nailing for long-bone fractures
- External fixation for severe injuries or staged management
- Pelvic and acetabular fracture fixation
- Periprosthetic fracture management
- Nonunion repair with bone grafting and revision fixation
- Malunion correction with osteotomy
- Limb-salvage and complex reconstruction
Recovery & Outlook
What to Expect After Treatment
Highly fracture-dependent. Simple distal radius fractures: 6–12 weeks. Femur or tibia fractures: 3–6 months. Complex pelvic or acetabular fractures: 6–12 months. Nonunion repair: 4–8 months for healing after revision. Most patients regain function; some severe injuries leave permanent limitation.
Meet Your Team
Specialists Who Treat Fractures & Trauma
Related Treatments
Services That Address Fractures & Trauma
Fractures & Trauma — Frequently Asked Questions
Related Conditions
You May Also Want to Read About
Compression Fractures
Vertebral fractures from osteoporosis, trauma, or tumor causing sudden back pain and height loss.
Ankle Sprain
Stretched or torn ligaments in the ankle from twisting or rolling injuries.
Foot Fractures
Stress, traumatic, and complex foot fractures including metatarsal, calcaneal, and Lisfranc injuries.
Sports Injuries
A wide range of athletic injuries from sprains and strains to fractures and dislocations.
Get Expert Help for Fractures & Trauma
Our specialists can diagnose your condition and design a personalized treatment plan that gets you back to the life you love.