Health Education

Medical Device

Fixation implant (including screw, plate, nail, and intramedullary rod)

Description of the Medical Device

The purpose of fixation implant is to provide support to the fractured bones, maintain limbs in good shape, and restore the integrity of articular facet.

When to Use

Fracture with limb deformation, fracture with articular facet damages, unstable fracture.

Possible Side Effects

• Patients might need to undergo another surgery if the fixation implant becomes loose due to the preexisting condition of osteoporosis.
• Infection and osteomyelitis might occur due to improper care or poor immune system.
• Open fracture has a higher risk of having infection after the procedure.
• Fixation implant has a limited strength, please be cautious about the weight bearing as instructed by the doctor. Improper weight bearing or activities may cause fixation implant to break.

Care after the Procedure

• Please use proper cast, crutches or assisting devices as instructed by your physician after the procedure. Please start weight bearing or move limbs in a timely manner as instructed by your physician.
• Cleanse and care for the wound based on the secretion as instructed by your physician and put on clean gauze pads after cleansing.
• Keep the wound dry before the stitches are removed. Avoid water (tap water, drinking water) or other non-sanitized objects.
• Please keep the wound dry after being discharged from the hospital. If the wound gets wet, please change the dressing immediately.
• Make sure the main caregiver understand the procedure for cleansing and caring for the wound before being discharged from the hospital. Should you have any questions, please consult with your physician or nurse.