When a bone is broken, it can be a painful and challenging experience. However, modern medicine has enabled us to treat fractures through a process called osteosynthesis.

This is a surgical procedure that involves the use of metal implants to hold the broken bones in place, allowing them to heal and merge together once again.

What is Osteosynthesis and Why is it Done?

Osteosynthesis is a surgical technique that is used to treat bone fractures. Broken bones can lead to severe pain, reduced mobility, and even permanent disability if not treated correctly.

Using osteosynthesis techniques, surgeons can place metal implants into the bone to stabilize and support the fracture as it heals over time.

The aim of osteosynthesis is to ensure that the fractured area is immobilized to allow undisturbed and supported bone healing. The use of metal plates, screws, wires, and pins are frequently used to repair bone breaks.

These implants provide the necessary structural support for the broken bone to heal correctly without deformities or dislocations.

Types of Osteosynthesis Techniques

There are two main types of osteosynthesis techniques that can be used to repair bone fractures.

Open Reduction Internal Fixation (ORIF)

ORIF is the most common technique involving surgery for bone fractures. It is a method that involves open surgery to access and align the broken bone before the use of metal implants.

The surgery involves the use of metal plates, screws, and rods to hold the bone in its correct place and promote healing. The metal implants are fixed to the external surface of the bone to support the internal fixation of bone fragments during the healing process. This technique is typically used to repair significant fractures that require extensive support.

Minimally Invasive Osteosynthesis (MIO)

Minimally invasive osteosynthesis (MIO) technique involves a surgical procedure that requires minimal incisions and internal fixation of bone fragments using screws, pins, and wires.

This technique has been developed based on the philosophy of “biological fixation,” which requires the implant to provide sufficient stability during the bone healing process without harming the surrounding soft tissues. MIO has been gaining increased popularity as a valid alternative to traditional open reduction techniques. It is frequently used for the treatment of small fractures, typically seen in the hands, feet, and limbs.

Benefits of Osteosynthesis

Osteosynthesis is a popular way to treat bone fractures because it offers various benefits for the patient, including:.

Rapid Healing: Osteosynthesis has been shown to promote rapid and correct bone healing, reducing the recovery time for patients.
Less Time in the Hospital: Patients typically spend less time in the hospital with osteosynthesis than other treatments for fractures, due to the less invasive approach and faster healing time.
Better Mobility: Osteosynthesis often leads to better mobility and fewer post-treatment complications, as the bone is stabilized and supported during the healing process.
Improved Quality of Life: Patients who undergo osteosynthesis often experience an improved quality of life as they can resume their daily activities sooner, making their recovery easier and more comfortable.

Preparing for Osteosynthesis Surgery

Before surgery, your doctor will provide a set of guidelines to follow to prepare for the procedure of osteosynthesis.

Medical evaluation: Before surgery, your doctor will evaluate and discuss your medical history to rule out any potential complications or risks.
Blood tests: Blood tests may be ordered to ensure that your body is healthy enough for surgery and that there are no underlying medical conditions that could affect your recovery.
X-rays and CT scans: Diagnostic imaging tests such as x-rays, CT scans, or MRI are used to examine the extent of the fracture to determine the placement for the implant and the course of action regarding post-surgery recovery.
Stop Smoking: Smoking can inhibit the body’s ability to heal correctly. Your doctor may recommend that you stop smoking for a period before the surgery to promote faster healing.

What to Expect During Osteosynthesis Surgery

The surgical procedure for osteosynthesis typically takes between one and three hours, depending on the extent of the injury and the chosen surgical technique.

Your surgeon may use local or general anesthesia before the surgery, depending on your needs and the location of the fracture.

During the surgery, your surgeon will make one or several incisions into the affected area of the bone fracture. They will use metal implants such as plates, screws, pins, or rods, to fix the bone fragments in place.

Once the bone is stabilized, the incisions will be closed with stitches or surgical tape.

Recovery After Osteosynthesis Surgery

Recovery after osteosynthesis surgery will depend on various factors, including the extent of the fracture, surgical technique, and age of the patient.

Typical healing times for bone fractures after osteosynthesis surgery can range from six to twelve weeks. Patients may need to remain inactive and use crutches, braces, or slings to support the affected area during recovery.

Your doctor will prescribe over-the-counter or prescription pain relief medication to manage discomfort during recovery and may recommend physiotherapy or rehabilitation exercises to restore mobility and strength.

The Risks and Complications of Osteosynthesis Surgery

Osteosynthesis surgery is generally safe and effective for bone fracture treatment, but like any surgery, it does present certain risks and complications, including:.

Infection at the site of the implant
Blood clotting after surgery
Nerve damage from nerve irritation or injury during surgery
Allergic reactions to implants
Implant failure due to weight-bearing overload or post-operative bending movements

Conclusion

Osteosynthesis is a surgical procedure that allows for the stabilization and repair of broken bones. This technique has become increasingly popular due to its effectiveness in promoting rapid bone healing and reducing recovery time.

Patients who undergo osteosynthesis may gain better mobility, a faster recovery, and an improved quality of life overall. As with any surgical procedure, osteosynthesis does have risks and complications, and it is essential to consult with your physician before undertaking the procedure to make informed decisions about your health.