Fracture management news

Till recently only Plaster of Paris ( PoP) was available to immobilize joints for fractures. It is heavy and often because of this the movement becomes difficult. Also, the setting time for PoP is comparatively long ( 24-72 hours). Now a synthetic resin is available that sets in 10-15 minutes, is much lighter and the patient finds movement of the limb become much easier. The only disadvantage is that is expensive, but it may become cheaper in the near future. 

Hizarov Technique
This is a ‘plasterless’ technique, useful for fractures of legs which was developed by a Russian doctor Gavrill A. Hizarov. It is a compound system consisting of rings and wires to fix the bone (Figure2). The advantage of this procedure is that the person need not be immobilized. It involves a series of horizontal and vertical supports, which are screwed up from outside, to immobilize the limb. It is light, effective and above all, the patient remains mobile, and since no plaster is used the limb feels lighter.

Locking Compression Plating (LCP)
This is the latest technique for rapid fixing of fractures and ensures early mobility. A special design is applied which provides angular stability. It is especially useful in complex fractures with multiple breakages where conventional fixation methods may not work. The advantages of this technique are that there is less blood loss and scar formation and the person can start moving the broken limb on the day after the surgery itself. Titanium plates with holes are fixed to the shattered bone and screws are put in through the holes to keep the plates in place. The procedure is relatively new and expensive.


In a Lighter Vein

Correct Diagnosis
Once two budding doctors were trying to diagnose the problem of a man walking towards them with a limp.
‘Osteoarthritis! Said one. ‘No, he has a fracture’ said the other. The correct diagnosis turned out to be a broken slipper strap!