What types of materials or procedures are used for external fixation a fracture?

Materials used for external fixation of fractures:

1. Metal rods or pins:

- Stainless steel: Most common material for external fixators. Strong and durable, but can cause skin irritation and corrosion over time.

- Titanium: Lighter and more biocompatible than stainless steel. Less likely to cause skin irritation and corrosion.

- Carbon fiber: Lightweight and radiolucent (does not block X-rays). Often used for temporary fixation.

2. Screws:

- Stainless steel: Most common material for external fixation screws.

- Titanium: Lighter and more biocompatible than stainless steel.

- Polyaxial screws: Allow for adjustment of the screw angle after insertion, which can be useful for complex fractures.

3. Clamps:

- Stainless steel: Most common material for external fixation clamps.

- Titanium: Lighter and more biocompatible than stainless steel.

- Polyaxial clamps: Allow for adjustment of the angle between two rods, which can be useful for complex fractures.

4. Bone cement:

- Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA): Most commonly used bone cement. Provides strong fixation, but can be difficult to remove.

- Calcium phosphate cement: Alternative to PMMA that is more biocompatible and easier to remove.

5. Soft tissue protection:**

- Padding: Used to protect the skin and soft tissues around the fracture site from the external fixator.

- Bolsters: Used to support and stabilize the fracture site.

Procedures used for external fixation of fractures:

1. Closed reduction:

- Non-surgical procedure in which the fracture is manipulated back into place without making an incision.

- External fixator is then applied to hold the fracture in place.

2. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF):

- Surgical procedure in which an incision is made to access the fracture site.

- Fracture fragments are then aligned and held in place with screws, plates, or nails.

- External fixator may be applied to provide additional support and stability.

3. External fixation alone:

- In some cases, external fixation may be used alone without internal fixation.

- This is often done for complex fractures or for fractures in patients who are not good candidates for surgery.