Fracture Fixation Surgery (Plates, Rods & Screws)

What Is Fracture Fixation?

Fracture fixation is a surgical procedure used to stabilize broken bones using medical hardware such as plates, screws, or rods. These devices hold the bone in proper alignment while it heals, helping restore strength and function.

Fracture fixation is commonly used for displaced fractures, unstable fractures, and injuries that cannot heal properly with casting or bracing alone. Stabilizing the bone allows for improved healing and earlier return to movement.

When Fracture Fixation Is Recommended

Fracture fixation may be recommended for:

• Displaced fractures
• Unstable fractures
• Complex fractures
• Comminuted fractures (multiple fragments)
• Joint fractures
• Nonunion fractures
• Malunion fractures
• High-energy trauma injuries
• Fractures requiring early mobility

Your orthopedic specialist will determine the best treatment approach.

Types of Fracture Fixation Devices

Several types of hardware may be used depending on the fracture:

Plates and Screws

Metal plates are attached to the bone using screws to hold fracture fragments in place. This technique is commonly used for:

• Arm fractures
• Wrist fractures
• Clavicle fractures
• Ankle fractures
• Shoulder fractures

Intramedullary Rods (Nails)

Rods are inserted into the center of the bone to stabilize long bone fractures. This method is commonly used for:

• Femur fractures
• Tibia fractures
• Humerus fractures

Screws Alone

In some cases, screws alone may be used to stabilize smaller fractures or joint injuries.

Your surgeon will choose the fixation method based on fracture location and severity.

How Fracture Fixation Surgery Is Performed

During fracture fixation surgery:

• The bone is realigned into proper position
• Hardware is placed to stabilize the fracture
• Imaging is used to confirm alignment
• Incisions are closed
• The limb is immobilized if necessary

This procedure helps maintain alignment while the bone heals.

Recovery After Fracture Fixation

Recovery depends on fracture location and severity. Many patients begin gentle movement early in recovery. Rehabilitation may include:

• Physical therapy
• Range-of-motion exercises
• Gradual strengthening
• Weight-bearing progression

Healing typically occurs over several weeks to months.

Benefits of Fracture Fixation

Fracture fixation surgery may provide:

• Improved bone alignment
• Stabilization of the fracture
• Faster healing
• Earlier mobility
• Reduced risk of malunion
• Improved long-term function
• Better joint alignment

These benefits help support optimal recovery.

When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

You should seek evaluation if you experience:

• Broken bone with displacement
• Severe pain after injury
• Visible deformity
• Inability to move the limb
• Fracture not healing properly
• Unstable fracture

Prompt treatment helps improve outcomes.

Why Choose TMI Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Surgery

TMI provides advanced fracture fixation using plates, rods, and screws to stabilize complex injuries. Our orthopedic specialists focus on restoring alignment, promoting healing, and helping patients safely return to activity.