DEPARTMENT

TRAUMA

The word fracture stands for interruption of the bone; this maybe due to a trauma, like a fall down. The healing of a fracture can be “primary” by creating directly new extra bone. In this case it is necessary to obtain: stability, compression and a good apposition of the fragments. For these reasons the patient needs a surgical approach involving plates and screws. Therefore, the healing can be “secondary” by leading to the formation of a callus. In this case an external fixator is worth to help the healing process in order to guarantee: stability, dynamization and, sometimes, compression or distraction.

ANATOMICAL DISTRICT

HAND AND WRIST

Fractures of the hand are tipically concerning with metacarpus, falanx or wrist. They are supposed to be compound or displaced. In case of compound fractures, the surgeon usually chooses a conservative treatment such as retaining plaster. In case of multi-fragmentary or displaced fractures there are at least two different options: reduction with Kapandji technique (use of K wires combined with retaining plaster) or Orif technique. Finally, in case of displaced or exposed fractures and, consequently, risk of surgical site infection underneath, it would be better to adopt external fixation. In case of high energy traumas involvig distal radius and distal ulna, it is recommanded the use of dedicated perosthesis. In terms of tratments about fractures of the scafoid the golden standard is the osteosynthesis by means of titanium cannulated screws.

ANATOMICAL DISTRICT

TIBIA

In case of a “secondary” healing, the surgeon has the difficulty to stabilize the fracture in a very fast way and, possibly, to minimize injuries to the bones as well as to the articulations. it is the situation of damage control orthopaedics approach.

ANATOMICAL DISTRICT

TIBIA, FIBULAR AND CALCANEUS

In case of “primary healing”, the surgeon has dicculty to obtain: a good apposition of bone fragments, a good stabilization, a good compression.