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Indications

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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Internal fixation is often the best means of holding a reduced fracture. It may be indicated for:

  • fractures that require open reduction - only rarely does internal fixation not follow operative reduction

  • displaced intra-articular fractures which are sufficiently large to interfere with joint function

  • major avulsion fractures with disruption of an important muscle mechanism or ligament - for example, those of the greater tuberosity of the humerus, the patella, the olecranon, or the intercondylar of the tibia

  • Salter Harris type III and IV epiphyseal fractures - require accurate anatomical reduction to avoid epiphyseal arrest or deformity

  • fractures known to heal poorly - for example, those of the femoral neck, Galeazzi fractures, amd Monteggia fracture dislocations

  • delayed union - may respond to internal fixation and a bone graft

  • pathological fractures - underlying bone disease may prevent healing

  • multiple fractures - where both bones of one limb, or the same bone in both limbs are fractured, it may be best to fix one and manage the other conservatively

  • fractures in patients who are difficult to nurse - due to disability, infirmity, or psychiatric problems - may be unable to tolerate cast immobilisation or to co-operate with traction methods

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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