The treatment goal of fracture fixation is to restore the patient to normal function as quickly as possible. There are a number of ways of managing bone fractures, including; External Coaptation (such as a bandage or cast), External Skeletal Fixation (ESF), Plating (plate and screws) and Pins & Wires. Each can be used alone or in combination, the aim being to hold the fractured bone fragments still, stable and in their correct anatomical position while the process of fracture healing takes place.
Certain fractures (such as those of the pelvis, spine, jaw/skull and certain joints) can be complicated. While conventional x-rays are sufficient to conform a diagnosis in most cases; CT scans are particularly important when planning for such complicated surgeries. We are currently unable to offer these procedures at Oakhill, but are happy to discuss these cases and direct you to a Specialist who can help.
The way in which we treat fractures depends on age, size, fitness, broken bone, type of fracture, and budget available. External Skeletal Fixation is an extremely versatile, affordable (implant costs are low), and adaptable method of fracture fixation. There is less specialist equipment, compared to Plate and Screw fixation, and the implants are removed once fracture healing is complete.