Fracture Fixation

What is fracture fixation?

Fracture Fixation. Fracture fixation stabilizes extremely misaligned broken bones by “re-setting,” or “reduction,” by using splints, casts, and implants, for example.

A fracture is a break in a bone. This may result in deformity and pain. In addition, some fractures are known to have poor healing rates (non-union).

Because of these, modern fracture treatment often consists of ‘internal fixation’ which means fixation using plates, screws, or nails which are inside the body (as opposed to external fixation which is pins or wires outside the body).

As some fractures may result in deformity, poor function, or post-traumatic degeneration, your surgeon may recommend fixation. While some fractures may heal in a plaster or sling, there can be pain for several weeks while the fracture is unstable, and fixing these allows earlier return to function and patients may elect to have treatment by internal fixation for this reason.