An analysis of the incidence and characteristics of upper limb fractures

Abstract

Objective To investigate the features and regularity of different upper extremity fractures in the population of Nantong in summer and provide clues for prevention. Methods We retrospeetively reviewed 1270 patients with fractures between May and July of 2008.The type of fractures,its location,patient gender and age were recorded.These cases were then grouped by gender and age.Various types of fractures in the population,the charactefistics and the incidence were sorted and analyzed. Results There were 1395 fractures in these 1270 patients.In all the fractures,upper extremity fractures accounted for 48.0％,while lower extremity fractures accounted for 29.0％.Among upper extremity fracture sites,phalangeal fractures accounted for 30.0％; distal radial fractures accounted for 15.7％; clavicle fractures accounted for 10.8％; metacarpal fractures accounted for 8.8％.Among upper extremity fracture patients,phalangeal fractures accounted for 31.6％; distal radial fractures accounted for 10.9％; distal radius with ulnar styloid fractures accounted for 5.7％; clavicle fractures accounted for 11.4％; metacarpal fractures accounted for 6.5％. Conclusion This study provides a better understanding of the upper limb fractures in summer regarding fracture sites and incidences.It offers insights in developing preventive measures and guiding the treatment. Key words: Upper extremity; Fractures, bone; Statistics