Sternal Fracture Fixation
Sternal Fracture Fixation - Related Videos
11:21
Development of a Novel Internal Fixation Model for Rat Radial Fractures: Fracture Healing Assessment and Dorsal Root Ganglion Isolation
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2026
The study innovatively combines sutures and titanium needles for stable internal fixation in a rat radial fracture model. Fracture healing was assessed via micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), and primary dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons were isolated and cultured for further investigation.
15:11
Surgical Fixation of Sternal Fractures: Preoperative Planning and a Safe Surgical Technique Using Locked Titanium Plates and Depth Limited Drilling
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Cited by 33 •
2015
Here we present a method to stabilize sternal fractures by using locked titanium plates in a low profile design. Performing subperiosteal dissection along the sternum while reducing the fracture, using depth limited drilling, and fixing the plates provides a safe surgical way.
08:53
Whole Animal Perfusion Fixation for Rodents
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Cited by 531 •
2012
Here we describe a low-cost, rapid, controlled and uniform fixation procedure using 4% paraformaldehyde perfused via the vascular system: through the heart of the rat to obtain the best possible preservation of the brain.
07:51
Acrylic Resin Molding Based Head Fixation Technique in Rodents
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Cited by 4 •
2016
Traditional head fixation techniques have used metallic frames attached on the skull as an interface for head fixation apparatus. This protocol demonstrates a frameless, acrylic resin molding based head fixation technique for behavioral tasks in rodents.
09:12
A Method for Studying the Temperature Dependence of Dynamic Fracture and Fragmentation
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Cited by 1 •
2015
Fracture and fragmentation are late stage phenomena in dynamic loading scenarios and are typically studied using explosives. We present a technique for driving expansion using a gas gun which uniquely enables control of both loading rate and sample temperature.
FAQs
Fixation restores alignment between displaced fracture segments and holds them in a stable position with plates and screws. This support limits painful movement at the fracture site while the sternum heals. Greater chest-wall stability can make breathing, coughing, and physical activity more tolerable, particularly when an unstable fracture disrupts normal movement of the front of the chest.
The decision is influenced by fracture instability, substantial displacement, chest-wall deformity, or failure to heal with nonsurgical treatment. These features suggest that the sternum may not maintain adequate alignment or stability on its own. In such settings, fixation provides structural support aimed at improving healing, reducing persistent pain, and restoring chest-wall function.
Painful motion at a fractured sternum can become more noticeable during breathing and coughing because these activities move the chest wall. By reducing movement between fracture segments, fixation supports a more stable chest wall and may lessen pain during these actions. This mechanical improvement can help reduce respiratory complications associated with an unstable or poorly healed fracture.
Maintaining alignment and stability supports healing of the fractured sternum and helps preserve the shape and function of the chest wall. This is especially relevant when displacement or deformity interferes with normal movement. Successful stabilization may reduce persistent pain and impaired function after chest trauma, allowing breathing, coughing, and physical activity to become less limited.
The procedure begins with surgical exposure of the fracture, followed by realignment of the displaced sternal segments. Surgeons then secure the aligned bone with plates and screws to maintain stability during healing. The essential objective is mechanical stabilization rather than simply closing the fracture, because restored alignment and support address painful movement and chest-wall deformity.
Fixation may be considered when a fracture remains unstable, stays significantly displaced, produces chest-wall deformity, or fails to heal with nonsurgical management. These circumstances indicate that conservative care has not provided sufficient structural support or recovery. Surgery then offers a way to realign the sternum and maintain stability while healing progresses after chest trauma.
The intended outcomes include improved sternal alignment, stronger chest-wall stability, and support for bone healing. Patients may also experience less pain during breathing, coughing, or physical activity, along with reduced risk of respiratory complications and impaired function related to the fracture. These benefits make fixation relevant when instability or displacement interferes with recovery.