ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -Internal fixation allows shorter hospital stays, enables patients to return to normal activities earlier, and reduces the incidence of nonunion and malunion (healing in improper position) of broken bones. The implants used for internal fixation are made from stainless steel and titanium, which are durable and strong.

Detailed explanation-2: -Doctors treat most broken bones with a cast, splint, or brace. This keeps the broken bone from moving while it heals. Even broken bones that don’t line up (called displaced) often will heal straight over time. Sometimes the displaced bones are put back in place before the cast, splint, or brace is put on.

Detailed explanation-3: -Screws are used to secure two bones or bone fragments together to allow for compression of the bone to promote healing. This not much different than when you screw two pieces of wood together to hold them in place.

Detailed explanation-4: -An open fracture is where the fractured bone protrudes (sticks out) from the skin. This is also referred to as a “compound fracture.” An open fracture is a medical emergency because of the potential for a bone infection called “osteomyelitis.” To learn more click “The Three Fracture Emergencies.” Comminuted Fracture.