External Fixation Surgery in Hyderabad

How is external fixation performed?

An orthopedic surgeon performs external fixation under general anesthesia. These are the steps that are most commonly followed during an operation:

1. The fracture area is drilled with holes.
2. Bolts are inserted into the holes.
3. The bolts are joined to the rods by ball-and-socket joints.
4. To ensure that the bone is aligned correctly, minimal bone shortening can be done to the ball-and-socket joint.

Incision sites are cleaned frequently to prevent infection. Sometimes, a cast might be necessary.

It is often possible to remove the bolts and frame in a doctor’s office without any anesthesia. Fractures can occur at drill sites, and extended protection may be required after removing the device.

The following conditions make external fixation dangerous:

• Bone disorders or degradation can compromise stabilization.
• Pins and wires that are not adequately cared for can prove problematic.
• People with severely compromised immune systems are at greater risk of infection.

Risks and complications of external fixation

Significant complications that can affect the healing process are problems with the fixing device to sustain reduction, ineffective bone-pin interfacing, and non-healing fractures. Some minor issues include pin tract drainage, poor limb use, and neurovascular injuries.

External fixation devices can pose the following risks:

• Pin site Infections and osteomyelitis
• Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolisms (DVT) are both possible.
• Aseptic loosening
• Fracture nonunion or refracture
• Loss of reduction

Who needs an external fixation?

External fixators can quickly stabilize severe trauma injuries while allowing access to soft tissues that might need treatment. It is crucial if severe damage has occurred to nerves, muscles, blood vessels and skin. External fixation devices can help ensure that fractured bones are stable and aligned. The device is adjustable externally to ensure that the bones are in the optimal position throughout recovery. Typically, the device works well in children.