FEMORAL SHAFT FRACTURES : A femoral shaft fracture is a fracture (break in bone) of the shaft of the femur (thigh bone). This is the bone between the hip and the knee.
Patients with a femoral shaft fracture typically have sustained high-energy trauma, such as that which occurs in a motor vehicle accident. As such, femoral shaft fractures are severe and are associated with potentially life-threatening pulmonary and vascular complications. Associated injuries to other parts of the femur, other bones, and soft tissue are common.
The symptoms of a femoral shaft fracture are usually obvious, with severe pain and inability to walk as the main findings. Bleeding can be substantial, and the area will likely develop a large black and blue mark.
A femoral shaft fracture almost always requires an operation.
