What is plate fixation?
What is plate fixation?
A plate is a type of internal fixation that is attached to the bone with screws. Plates are made of surgical grade stainless steel or titanium. After treatment, plates can be removed during a surgical procedure or they can remain in place. Our doctors discuss the pros and cons about removing plates with each patient.
What are the indications for surgical treatment of the olecranon process?
Conventional indications for surgical treatment include open fractures, displaced fractures and fractures causing disruption to the extensor mechanism affecting the insertion of triceps muscle into the olecranon.
Why is a plate with locking screws particularly valuable for fracture fixation in a patient with osteoporotic bone?
Direct plate-to- bone compression is not required, better preserving the blood supply to the bone. The plate-screw assembly distributes stress along the entire length of the plate, making locking plates better suited for osteoporotic bone and multi-segment fractures.
What metal is used for bone plates?
The biocompatible materials used for bone plates are: stainless steel (SS), cobalt base alloys, bioceramics, titanium alloys, pure titanium, composite materials, and polymers (non-resorbable and bioresorbable).
How long does it take for bones to heal with plates and screws?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, the average bone healing time is between 6 – 8 weeks, although it can vary depending on the type and site of the injury. People usually stop feeling pain long before the broken bone has healed and the limb is ready for regular activity.
Are plates and screws permanent?
They do help to hold things in place while the body heals, and they are typically meant to stay in the body forever. There are cases, though, when removing metal plates and screws, or other implants, may be necessary.
How long does it take for an olecranon fracture to heal?
The prognosis for olecranon fractures is generally excellent and the fracture will typically heal within three months. You will find that you elbow and shoulder become stiff due to the immobilization process. Physical or occupational therapy is typically recommended to regain strength and range of motion.
How do you repair a olecranon fracture?
Open reduction and internal fixation. This is the procedure most often used to treat olecranon fractures. During the procedure, the bone fragments are first repositioned into their normal alignment. The pieces of bone are then held in place with screws, wires, pins, or metal plates attached to the outside of the bone.
Do plates and screws stay in?
Reasons to take out a plate and screws Surgeons leave plates and screws in most of the time, but there are some situations that may make the surgeon or patient more willing to take out the hardware: irritated tendons (can happen from a screw or the plate edge rubbing on a tendon)
How long do titanium plates last?
Titanium is also incredibly durable and long-lasting. When titanium cages, rods, plates and pins are inserted into the body, they can last for upwards of 20 years.
Does bone grow over titanium plates?
Researchers from Shinshu University found that, unlike conventional plates, the titanium fiber plates do not cause bone embrittlement after close contact with the bone for prolonged periods.