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5. Internal Fixation

• Purpose: Provides rigid stabilization for fractures requiring precise alignment.
• Materials: Screws, plates, rods, intramedullary nails.
• Application:
o A surgical procedure where implants are placed directly on or inside the bone.
o Provides stable fixation, allowing for earlier mobilization.
• Advantages:
o Ensures precise alignment.
o Allows for earlier weight-bearing and movement.
• Common Uses:
o Displaced long bone fractures.
o Intra-articular fractures requiring anatomical reduction.

Key Principles of Immobilization

To ensure successful immobilization and healing, orthopaedic technologists must adhere to the
following principles:

1. Proper Alignment (Reduction)
o Ensure that the fractured bone segments are properly aligned before
immobilization.
o Reduction techniques may be closed (manual manipulation) or open (surgical
intervention).
2. Adequate Stability
o Immobilization must provide sufficient support to prevent movement at the
fracture site while allowing for necessary function.
o Consider weight-bearing status based on fracture stability.
3. Soft Tissue Protection
o Avoid excessive pressure over nerves, blood vessels, or bony prominences.
o Ensure proper padding under casts, splints, and braces to prevent skin
complications.
4. Patient Education
o Educate patients on proper care of immobilization devices.
o Instruct on signs of complications (e.g., numbness, increased pain, swelling, or
discoloration).
o Discuss activity limitations and rehabilitation exercises to prevent muscle atrophy
and joint stiffness.
5. Monitoring for Complications
o Regularly assess neurovascular status to ensure adequate circulation.
o Watch for signs of cast syndrome, compartment syndrome, or skin breakdown.
o Ensure timely follow-ups to evaluate fracture healing progression.