CRM-RJ 870137 · RQE 20287 · Updated on 30/10/2026
What orthopedic trauma is
It is the set of musculoskeletal injuries caused by external energy: falls, traffic and motorcycle accidents, sports and household accidents. It includes simple and complex fractures, dislocations, ligament injuries and open fractures.
When surgery is indicated
- displaced or unstable fractures;
- fractures reaching the joint;
- open fractures, where bone breaks through the skin;
- femoral neck fractures and others requiring early mobilization;
- pelvis and acetabulum fractures;
- non-union and deformities after fracture.
How the surgery is done
The surgeon realigns the fragments and fixes them with plates and screws, intramedullary rods (inside the bone) or other implants. In open fractures, surgical cleaning of the wound is added. Whenever possible, techniques that preserve soft tissues and reduce bone trauma are used to favor healing.
When the joint cannot be rebuilt, a replacement may be an option. In extensive cases the approach involves joint reconstruction.
After surgery
The goal is to allow movement as soon as possible. Physical therapy starts early, with guidance on weight-bearing. Follow-up X-rays confirm healing. Recovery time depends on the bone, the fracture type and the patient's health.
