What happens during a severe angulated fracture?

During a severe angulated fracture, the bones at the fracture site are displaced significantly, creating an angle that misaligns them. In such cases, proper alignment is critical for optimal healing and to restore function. Reduction, which involves realigning the bones to their proper anatomical position, is often required before splinting the area to stabilize the fracture. This procedure ensures that the bone ends are close enough to allow for healing and minimizes the risk of complications, such as improper bone healing or further injury.

While inability to plantar flex the foot may occur with certain fractures or injuries, it is not a defining characteristic of a severe angulated fracture specifically, as it implies neural or muscular issues rather than purely the fracture itself. Similarly, mechanical blockage of the brachial artery is not a direct consequence of angulated fractures, but could be a concern with more complex injuries. Partial contact of bone surfaces would indicate that the fracture might not be severe, as there would still be some alignment. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize proper reduction in cases of severe angulated fractures.