Fractures, although common, can significantly affect a person's mobility, function and overall quality of life. The good news, however, is that advances in orthopedic surgery have revolutionized fracture repair techniques, providing patients with effective and personalized treatments for faster healing and optimal rehabilitation. In this article, we will explore various surgical techniques for fracture repair, including their advantages, their applications, and how they have transformed the landscape of orthopedic treatment.
Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF)
Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is a widely used surgical technique for the treatment of complex fractures. During surgery, the surgeon makes an incision near the fracture site to directly visualize and reposition the bone fragments in their correct anatomical position. Internal fixation, such as screws and plates, is then used to stabilize the fracture and promote healing. ORIF is commonly used in long bone fractures, such as the femur, tibia and humerus, as well as complex joint fractures.
Pros: Open reduction and internal osteosynthesis allows for precise alignment and stabilization of the fracture, allowing for rapid rehabilitation and recovery. The use of internal fixation materials provides immediate structural support to the fractured bone.
Open reduction Intramedullary nailing
Intramedullary nailing is a technique used to treat long bone fractures, particularly in the femur and tibia. In this procedure, a metal rod is inserted into the bone marrow and fixed with screws at both ends. The intramedullary nail serves as an internal splint, stabilising the damaged bone and promoting natural healing.
Benefits: Intramedullary nailing is a minimally invasive approach as the procedure requires smaller incisions, resulting in less soft tissue damage and faster recovery time. The nail provides load-distributing support to the bone, reducing the risk of loss of reduction and pseudarthrosis (non healing) of the bone.
Externalosteosynthesis
External osteosynthesis is a technique used in cases of severe fractures, open fractures or fractures with extensive soft tissue damage. It involves the use of metal pins or wires inserted into the bone above and below the fracture site. These pins are attached to an external frame, holding the bone in alignment while allowing care of the swelling and overall wound.
Pros: External osteosynthesis provides stability in complex fractures without the need for extensive internal procedures. It is particularly useful in cases where wound healing and soft tissue management are extremely important.
Percutaneous. osteosynthesis
Percutaneous osteosynthesis can also be combined with closed reduction and is mainly used to treat small bone fractures, such as those of the hand or footIn this procedure, the surgeon externally realigns the fractured bone fragments and uses metal pins and/or wires to fix the fracture without making large incisions.
Advantages: Percutaneous osteosynthesis is a minimally invasive approach that results in faster healing and less post-operative pain. The technique preserves the soft tissue envelope, reducing the risk of infection and improving overall results.
Combination of techniques and their application in stages
This combination offers the advantages of external and internal osteosynthesis. Initially, an external osteosynthesis of the bone fracture is applied. Then, at a later stage, an internal osteosynthesis is performed with plates, screws or intramedullary nails, further securing the bone fragments.
Advantages: The combination of external and internal osteosynthesis offers a staged approach, facilitating soft tissue management and enabling the surgeon to achieve more accurate reduction of complex fractures, depending on the stage.
Surgical techniques for fracture repair have evolved significantly, providing patients with personalised treatments that promote faster healing and improved outcomes. Orthopedic surgeons can choose the most appropriate technique for each patient's fracture pattern and overall health. . As a result, patients enjoy improved mobility and a faster return to daily activities. As research and technology continue to evolve, the future of fracture treatment is even more promising, further improving patient outcomes and raising standards of care in orthopedic medicine.
To learn more about fracture treatments, contact us at 0030211 - 4057040 or 00306949196061 and orthopedikos-papagiannopoulos.gr and make an appointment.
