What is a tufts fracture?

A tufts fracture refers to a fracture occurring at the distal phalanx, which is located at the tip of the fingers or toes. This type of injury is often associated with crush injuries, where excessive force can lead to the fracture of the bone at the tuft or the end of the digit.

These fractures can be characterized by comminution, which is when the bone is splintered or crushed into multiple pieces. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, and difficulty in movement of the affected digit. Proper diagnosis often involves radiographic imaging to assess the extent of the fracture and any possible associated soft tissue injury.

In contrast to this injury type, other options refer to fractures in different anatomical locations such as the ulnar shaft, navicular bone (often associated with wrist injuries), and the femur, which are distinct and do not fall under the classification of a tufts fracture. Understanding the specific definitions and locations of various types of fractures is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment in orthopedic practice.