Patient Information Resources


Orthogate
1089 Spadina Road
Toronto, AL M5N 2M7
Ph: 416-483-2654
Fax: 416-483-2654
christian@orthogate.com






Ankle
Child Orthopedics
Elbow
Foot
General
Hand
Hip
Knee
Shoulder
Spine - Cervical
Spine - Lumbar
Spine - Thoracic
Wrist

View Web RX

« Back

My husband fractured and dislocated his elbow in a car accident. He's wearing a brace that's actually pinned into the elbow. Why can't he just have a regular brace that comes off and on?

You're describing what's called an external fixator for the elbow. The idea is to allow normal motion while still protecting the joint. During the healing process, it's important to avoid compression through the joint surfaces or overload the healing soft tissues.

Without the fixator your husband would not be allowed to move at all while the bone heals. The problem with that idea is then the joint loses its motion. Regaining lost motion is even more difficult than healing fractured bones.

The rigid fixation of a pinned brace gives better control of motion. Even a small amount of torque can cause the tissues to heal with the wrong angle.


References:

« Back





*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.