Internal fixation devices are medical implants used to stabilize and support broken bones during the healing process. These devices are typically made of metal and are surgically placed inside the body, directly on or near the fractured bone. The primary goal of internal fixation devices is to maintain proper alignment and immobilization of the fractured bone, allowing for optimal healing and restoring normal function.
There are several types of internal fixation devices commonly used, including plates, screws, rods, nails, pins, and wires. These devices are carefully selected based on the location, severity, and type of fracture, as well as the patient's age, activity level, and overall health.
Plates are flat, thin pieces of metal that are attached to the surface of the bone with screws, providing stability and compression. Screws are used to hold the fractured bone fragments together, either alone or in conjunction with other fixation devices. Rods, nails, and pins are long, slender implants that are inserted into the bone marrow cavity, acting as an internal splint. Wires are often used to hold bone fragments together temporarily, providing stability until more permanent fixation can be achieved.
Internal fixation devices are designed to be safely left inside the body for an extended period, reducing the need for external casts and facilitating early movement and rehabilitation. Following the complete healing of the fracture, these implants can be removed surgically or may remain in place indefinitely.
Overall, internal fixation devices play a crucial role in orthopedic surgery, providing stability, promoting healing, and ultimately restoring the normal structure and function of fractured bones.
