Osteosynthesis can be defined as any technique that through the use of implants achieves the repair of fractured bone tissue. The implants we usually use are made of titanium alloy, this material has a density and physical properties of resistance and flexion very similar to those of bone tissue.
Anatomical titanium implants
Currently, the development of biomaterials by the industry has developed anatomical implants that resemble the shape of the different bones and adapt perfectly to the place where they will be implanted. In addition, titanium has the property that the surrounding tissue encompasses it and avoids friction with neighboring structures such as tendons. The implants do not have to be removed if they do not disturb the patient.
Minimally invasive osteosynthesis (MIS) with plates
A few years ago, a new and totally revolutionary concept in the osteosynthesis of extremity fractures began to be implemented: minimally invasive osteosynthesis (MIS) with plates. After the introduction of new plates with locking systems for the screws and with anatomical shapes adaptable to each bone, the era of bone surgery with very little invasion and damage to the tissues covering the bone began.
In this way, with small incisions, which can range from 1 to 5 cm, we are able to treat complex fractures of long bones of the skeleton without having to make large wounds, and respecting the tissues surrounding the broken bone, making the postoperative period more tolerable than with the large incisions that had to be made in the past.
New biomaterials for the future
These techniques can be used to treat complex fractures of large bones such as the tibia, femur or humerus. In the humerus (arm) we developed the OMI technique during the first decade of this century, and a large number of patients have already undergone surgery with excellent results. The future will bring us the arrival of biomaterials totally compatible with the human being that will be at the crossroads between biology and new materials.