IDS ::: Orthotics ::: Fracture Bracing

Fracture bracing.

The primary principle behind fracture bracing is to support the human endoskeletal system with a synthetic exoskeletal system, i.e. – a shell like a crab. When bracing a long bone it generally becomes more difficult the closer the fracture is to a joint. Some simple fracture braces are available "off the shelf" but often they need to be custom made, especially if they will be subject to high stresses or are intended for long term use.

X-ray of ankle showing missing talus and calcaneus as a result of trauma.

Taking the plaster of paris cast to begin the process of making the fracture brace

The fracture brace fitted with external fixators still in situ. Note the anterior section which is designed to provide patellar bearing. The outside of the heel area has been built up with a compressible material to fill the space left by the calcaneus and provide some shock absorption

A very unstable elbow joint which fully dislocates constantly. The patient was considered to be unsuitable for surgery.

X-ray showing the dislocated elbow.

A custom made hinged brace in use. The patient can fully flex and extend the elbow without suffering a dislocation.

Elderly lady with osteoporotic femoral fracture

X-ray showing the fractured femur and plate held in good alignment within the orthosis. The side steels of the orthosis are also partially shown.

Another example of totally destroyed knees, this time by arthritis.The fracture braces which were used are shown below

Bilateral ischial bearing KAFO's without joints. This patient managed very well, but obviously rising to stand can be an issue, especially for taller patients.

A patient demonstrating a knee which had been fused by T.B. many years ago and subsequently fractured. It was unstable in every plane, but had no useful or pain free movement.

Showing an ischial bearing KAFO without joints. The patient was able to fully weight bear.

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