Fractures are among the most prevalent injuries as they may occur in anyone at any time due to accidents, falls, or sports activities. When a bone is fractured, the first thing that needs to be done is to set it in the correct position and immobilise it so that it can knit properly.
The process is commonly referred to as bone fracture fixation. It is a critical component of orthopaedic care which has gained a lot of popularity in recent years. It aids in regaining the ability to move, promotes bone union, and minimises the risk of developing complications in the future.
What is Bone Fracture Fixation?
Bone fracture surgery is the medical management of aligning broken bone fragments and stabilising them with the help of certain apparatus to allow healing. This is usually the case when the break is open, the bones are shifted, or the fracture is located in a joint or an area that supports body weight.
It also helps the patient to regain the use of the affected limb or joint more quickly and also prevents the development of malunion. In the treatment, there are two broad categories of fixation, which include internal and external fixation.
Internal Fixation Techniques
Internal fixation is one of the most frequently used techniques in the treatment of fractures. This involves using appliances like plates, screws, rods, or pins that are inserted into the body to hold the bone in place. These components are usually made of stainless steel or titanium to provide strength and compatibility with the human body.
Internal fixation may be done under general or regional anaesthesia by the surgeons. When the bone is in the correct position, the hardware is placed to hold the broken pieces together. Most of these devices are implanted inside the body and may only be retrieved later depending on the circumstances or the patient’s condition. It is especially useful in the femoral, forearm, ankle, or hip fractures where stability is paramount for movement and activities of daily living.
External Fixation Methods
External fixation is a process of stabilising the bone without actually joining the broken parts together, but rather using a frame from outside the body. In this technique, the metal pins or screws are passed through the skin and are fixed to the bone and connected to an external frame or rod. It also helps in maintaining the position of the bone during the healing process.
This method is usually used in cases of open fractures, extensive soft tissue injuries or where internal fixation cannot be done at the initial stage. It is usually used in cases where the bone has been damaged, and it can be adjusted or removed as the bone mends. External fixation is also useful in cases of multiple or complicated fractures since patients may need time to heal before a definitive surgical intervention is done.
The Healing Process and Recovery
The process of healing after bone fracture fixation depends on the location and extent of the injury, the type of fixation used, and the patient’s general health. Many patients need to be immobilised for a period of time and then rehabilitated to regain strength and mobility.
Recovery may take several weeks to months depending on the severity of the condition. In this stage, follow-ups should be made frequently to assess the positioning of the bones and the progress through radiography and physical examination. The best orthopaedic doctor in Andheri West can offer further care and rehabilitation services during this phase.
Final Thoughts
Internal fixation of bone fractures is an important aspect of orthopaedic surgery that provides stability to the fractured bones during the healing process. Whether the patient is to be treated with internal or external appliances, the objective is the same, that is, to regain strength, stability, and mobility in the shortest possible time and in the safest manner.
Due to improved surgical procedures and access to professional medical care, patients nowadays can expect improved results and a shorter time to resume their regular activities after a fracture. Collaborate with the best orthopaedic clinic in Andheri West to avail immediate relief.
