Difference in oblique and spiral fracture?

Posted by bree1912 @bree1912, Aug 15, 2023

I am needing to know the difference in an oblique and spiral fractures. Everything I find says these are different , but I have also been told they are the same.

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@bree1912 Welcome to Mayo Connect. I don't know why you are asking, but there is a difference. A spiral fracture typically results from a twisting bone fracturing, quite often a femur. On an x-ray it may actually appear as a circle the bone, often at an angle. An oblique fracture is at an angle through the bone. Both usually complete fractures, meaning the bone is completely severed.
Here is a link to a good description of the various types of fractures.
https://www.orthopedic-institute.org/fracture-care/types-of-fractures/
Did you recently fracture a bone?
Sue

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@sueinmn

@bree1912 Welcome to Mayo Connect. I don't know why you are asking, but there is a difference. A spiral fracture typically results from a twisting bone fracturing, quite often a femur. On an x-ray it may actually appear as a circle the bone, often at an angle. An oblique fracture is at an angle through the bone. Both usually complete fractures, meaning the bone is completely severed.
Here is a link to a good description of the various types of fractures.
https://www.orthopedic-institute.org/fracture-care/types-of-fractures/
Did you recently fracture a bone?
Sue

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No I didn't it was my granddaughter, she is 7 months old. They are thinking it is abuse but I could never get a straight answer on the type because all her paperwork from 4 doctorssaid oblique, but one actually said oblique or spiral so I was trying to find out. I just really want to understand what happened to this precious baby.

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And a spiral fracture as it results from twisting has a jagged edge of bone often with displaced particles. It is more difficult to line up the edges. It could happen accidentally if the child's foot were caught in blankets or crib slats or a car seat carrier. Abuse is always given consideration in an infant under six months with this type of fracture. Keep an open mind. And listen closely to how the suspected person explains the accident. Your precious granddaughter may have a bone disorder that disposes her to fracture. Luckily she has an investigative Grandmother to protect her.

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@bree1912

No I didn't it was my granddaughter, she is 7 months old. They are thinking it is abuse but I could never get a straight answer on the type because all her paperwork from 4 doctorssaid oblique, but one actually said oblique or spiral so I was trying to find out. I just really want to understand what happened to this precious baby.

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If you have ANY suspicion that there is or may be abuse, please be a "Mama Bear" and keep a close watch. If anyone caring for her is less than forthcoming with information, that is a red flag. If she has been a "difficult" baby - colic, illnesses or disabilities - abuse can creep in when parents are frustrated and tired, so another thing to consider. If the living situation is difficult, parents not together, money problems, unstable housing or employment...

I do not suggest jumping right in with a report to Child Protective Services (CPS) because the family may cut off contact with you, and those hurts may never heal.

What I suggest instead is that you educate yourself on the signs and symptoms of abuse (these are not always marks on the baby - they can be attitudes, language and behavior on the part of her adults, or even older children in the household, or daycare if they are involved.) Then cast an eagle eye on everything. Take every opportunity to be the one who bathes, feeds and diapers her. See how she reacts to people - fear or withdrawal can be more signs something is amiss.

Can you have an calm, open conversation with one or both parents about what happened? Remember, even if it is an accident, they will be feeling a great deal of guilt or remorse, so you need to sort that from actual abuse.
I am sorry you are in this difficult position, but please stay alert and do what your heart tells you is best for this little one.
I'll bee thinking of you.
Sue

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