Shoulder fractures are a common injury, often caused by falls, sports activities, or accidents. They can range from minor fractures to severe breaks that affect the stability and functionality of the shoulder joint.

Traditional treatment options for shoulder fractures include immobilization with slings or casts, pain management, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, surgery. However, recent advancements in medical technology have led to the development of a revolutionary treatment for shoulder fractures known as fracture fixation with locking plate and screws..

Understanding Shoulder Fractures

Before delving into the revolutionary treatment, it is crucial to understand the nature of shoulder fractures. The shoulder joint comprises the collarbone (clavicle), shoulder blade (scapula), and the upper arm bone (humerus).

Fractures can occur in any of these three bones, resulting in pain, swelling, bruising, and limited mobility.

Conventional Treatment Methods

Historically, non-surgical treatment options like immobilization with slings and casts were favored for less severe shoulder fractures. These methods allowed the bones to heal naturally over time.

Pain medication and physical therapy were used to manage pain and restore shoulder function.

However, non-surgical treatment had its limitations. It often resulted in longer recovery periods, increased risk of nonunion (failure of the bones to heal properly), and residual shoulder pain.

Additionally, immobilization can lead to muscle atrophy, further delaying rehabilitation and impeding functional recovery.

The Revolutionary Treatment: Fracture Fixation with Locking Plate and Screws

Fracture fixation with locking plate and screws has emerged as a game-changer in the treatment of shoulder fractures. This advanced surgical technique provides stability, promotes faster healing, and enhances overall shoulder function.

How does it work?.

The procedure involves the use of a locking plate and screws to fixate the fractured bones in their correct position.

The locking plate is typically made of titanium or stainless steel and is specifically designed to fit the contours of the shoulder bones.

During the surgery, the orthopedic surgeon carefully repositions the fractured bone fragments and secures them with the locking plate.

The screws are then inserted through the plate and into the bone, providing stability and ensuring proper alignment during the healing process.

The Benefits of Fracture Fixation with Locking Plate and Screws

1. Increased Stability: Locking plates and screws offer superior stability compared to traditional non-surgical methods.

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This increased stability reduces the risk of complications such as nonunion or malunion (improper healing) of the fracture.

2. Promotes Faster Healing: The rigid fixation provided by the locking plate and screws allows for direct bone healing.

This promotes faster healing times and reduces the overall recovery period compared to non-surgical treatment options.

3. Preservation of Shoulder Function: By precisely aligning and fixing the fractured bones, fracture fixation with locking plate and screws helps preserve shoulder function.

This reduces the risk of long-term limitations in mobility, stiffness, and chronic pain.

4. Early Mobilization and Rehabilitation: Unlike non-surgical treatment options that require prolonged immobilization, the surgical fixation approach allows for early mobilization and rehabilitation.

This helps prevent muscle atrophy and promotes faster and more comprehensive recovery.

5. Prevention of Secondary Fractures: Fractures in the shoulder can be complex, with several bone fragments involved.

The use of locking plates and screws helps stabilize these fragments, reducing the risk of further fractures or displacement.

Post-Surgical Care and Rehabilitation

After surgery, a comprehensive rehabilitation program is essential to optimize the outcomes of fracture fixation with locking plate and screws.

The rehabilitation plan may include gentle range-of-motion exercises, strengthening exercises, and gradually increasing activity levels under the supervision of a physical therapist.

It is crucial to follow the surgeon’s and physical therapist’s instructions diligently to ensure proper healing, minimize the risk of complications, and achieve the best possible shoulder function.

Conclusion

Fracture fixation with locking plate and screws represents a groundbreaking advancement in the treatment of shoulder fractures.

This revolutionary technique provides increased stability, faster healing, and better preservation of shoulder function compared to traditional non-surgical methods. With early mobilization and comprehensive rehabilitation, patients can achieve optimal recovery and regain full shoulder function.