ABSTRACT
The basic principle of fracture fixation is to provide anatomical alignment and support for as long as required to restore internal structural competence by bone healing. Given that many fractures dealt with by the orthopaedic surgeon are metaphyseal, an understanding of the fracture healing process in such areas is desirable. Indications include: Techniques for fracture immobilization can fall into one of four categories: Many fractures can be treated non-operatively provided that adequate reduction can be achieved and maintained. Factors that increase stability of circular external fixators: When used for fracture immobilization, unilateral or circular frames may be non-spanning or joint spanning. In reality the ‘traditional’ teaching on the biology of fracture healing, outlined earlier, applies only to diaphyseal bone. Given that many fractures dealt with by the orthopaedic surgeon are metaphyseal, an understanding of the fracture healing process in such areas is desirable.
