Does a trauma surgery perform fracture fixation surgery?

Yes, trauma surgery can perform fracture fixation surgery when a broken bone needs surgical alignment and stabilisation. The operation may use plates, screws, nails, wires, or another device chosen for the bone and fracture pattern.

The surgeon first restores the bone fragments to a useful position, then holds them there with internal or external supports. Fixation may be considered when a fracture is displaced, unstable, involves a joint, or cannot be maintained in position with a cast alone. The exact approach also depends on skin and muscle injuries, circulation, nerve function, and your general health. Read about [Fracture Fixation Surgery](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/fracture-fixation-surgery/).

Bring a list of medicines and tell the team about allergies, previous operations, and medical conditions. Before surgery, ask how to prepare, whether you should avoid food or drink, and which medicines need instructions. Afterward, follow weight-bearing limits, wound-care guidance, and exercises precisely. Keep follow-up visits so healing, alignment, and movement can be reviewed before activity is increased.

After an injury, urgent assessment is needed for an open wound over the fracture, a visibly deformed limb, severe or worsening pain, numbness, loss of movement, or a cold or discoloured hand or foot. After surgery, contact the team for fever, spreading redness, drainage, wound opening, new weakness, or pain that is not controlled as instructed.

Ask why fixation is recommended, which device will be used, and whether the hardware is intended to stay in place. Discuss anaesthesia, possible alternatives, weight-bearing restrictions, wound care, rehabilitation, and the signs that should prompt an urgent call.