Screw Fixation
Pelvic and acetabular fractures are complex injuries that often result from high-energy trauma, such as road traffic accidents, falls from height, or crush injuries. These fractures can involve the pelvic ring, acetabulum (hip socket), or both, and often require surgical stabilization to restore normal anatomy and function.
Screw fixation is a precise and minimally invasive method used to stabilize fracture fragments, especially in non-displaced or minimally displaced fractures, or in combination with plates and other fixation techniques.
What Is Screw Fixation?
Screw fixation involves the surgical placement of metal screws into the fractured bone fragments to hold them in place during healing. It is commonly used for:
- Anterior and posterior pelvic ring fractures
- Acetabular wall or column fractures
- Sacral fractures
- Iliac wing fractures
In certain cases, percutaneous screw fixation is performed using small skin incisions and image guidance (fluoroscopy or CT), minimizing tissue trauma and improving recovery.
Surgical Procedure Overview:
- Preoperative imaging (X-rays and CT scans) for detailed fracture mapping
- Surgery is performed under general or spinal anesthesia
- Small incisions are made, and screws are inserted with image guidance
- Cancellous or cortical screws are used depending on bone quality
- Screws are positioned across fracture lines to compress and stabilize the fragments
- Wound is closed and postoperative rehabilitation begins
Benefits of Screw Fixation:
- Minimally invasive with smaller incisions
- Preserves surrounding soft tissue and muscles
- Provides precise stabilization
- Lower infection risk and quicker recovery
- Allows for early mobilization in many cases
- Reduced hospital stay and rehabilitation time
Do’s After Surgery
- Follow your doctor’s instructions on weight-bearing and activity
- Keep the incision site clean and dry
- Begin physiotherapy when advised to regain strength and movement
- Use assistive devices like crutches or walkers if needed
- Attend follow-up visits and imaging for healing assessment
Don’ts After Surgery
- Avoid weight-bearing on the affected side unless approved
- Don’t skip medications or physiotherapy sessions
- Avoid twisting or bending at the hip during early recovery
- Don’t ignore signs of infection (redness, fever, drainage)
- Avoid high-impact activities until complete bone healing is confirmed