Fracture fixation surgery restores correct bone alignment and maintains it during healing and is used when a fracture cannot be held adequately with a cast or external splint due to displacement, joint surface involvement or instability.

At Apex, fixation devices, plates and screws, intramedullary nails or external frames are selected based on the fracture's location, pattern and the patient's overall condition. The image intensifier TV, confirmed on the Apex live page, provides intraoperative imaging to verify fracture reduction and implant position before the procedure is completed. Three full-time orthopaedic consultants covering trauma, spine and joint replacement are available at any time fracture assessment and surgical fixation proceed without waiting for daytime staffing. All procedures are performed in dedicated operation theatres with laminar flow ventilation. Early guided rehabilitation begins as soon as the clinical situation allows, as structured movement after fixation supports better functional outcomes than prolonged immobilisation.

How the Procedure Can Help

Surgical fixation restores anatomical alignment and allows earlier guided rehabilitation than cast management in displaced or unstable fractures. Intraoperative imaging at Apex confirms implant accuracy during the procedure before closure, reducing the risk of malposition. Round-the-clock consultant availability means complex fractures are not left to wait.

Risks and Considerations

Fixation requires anaesthesia, a surgical wound and the associated recovery demands. Risks include infection, particularly where soft tissue damage surrounds the fracture, implant failure before healing is complete, non-union, malunion, nerve or blood vessel injury, blood clots and the possible need for implant removal after the bone has consolidated.