Fracture & Trauma Surgery

What is a fracture?

• A break in the bone due to injury or accident.

How are fractures treated?

• Small/simple fractures → plaster or splint
• Unstable fractures → surgery with plates, screws, or rods

How long does healing take?

• Most fractures heal in 6–12 weeks, depending on bone quality and age.

Will I need surgery?

• Not always. Only if fracture is unstable, displaced, or near joints.

Is fracture surgery safe?

• Yes, with modern techniques, healing is usually very good.

Can bones heal without plaster?

• No, plaster or a plate only holds the bones in the correct position. Healing happens by itself. As a surgeon, we can only bring the bones together, but the body has to heal by itself. Yes, there are medications which help in faster healing but not the plaster or plate.

What about compound fractures?

• These are open fractures (bone comes out of skin) and need urgent surgery.

Will I set off airport scanners if I have metal implants?

• Yes, that is a possibility. But, with scar on the skin, usually there is no problem. The doctor and hospital also provide a Fit to Fly certificate, soft copy or a print out should be carried while travelling.

Can implants be removed later?

• Yes, sometimes after complete healing, especially in younger patients. It’s advisable to remove implants between 1.5-2 years post surgery.

What diet helps bone healing?

• Milk, eggs, fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables, nuts, and Vitamin D for faster healing.