Minimally Invasive Surgeries for Fractures Around the Shoulder (minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO))
Overview
Minimally invasive surgery for shoulder fractures involves using smaller incisions and advanced imaging to repair broken bones in the shoulder area. This technique results in less tissue damage, reduced scarring, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. It is commonly used for fractures of the clavicle, scapula, or proximal humerus.
What Are Minimally Invasive Shoulder Surgeries?
Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for shoulder fractures involves using small incisions and specialized instruments to realign and fix broken bones. Unlike traditional open surgeries, which require larger cuts and more extensive dissection, MIS minimizes damage to surrounding muscles and tissues. This approach results in less trauma to the body and allows for quicker healing.
Common Types of Shoulder Fractures Treated with MIS
Minimally invasive surgery can effectively treat various types of fractures around the shoulder, including:
- Proximal Humerus Fractures: These are breaks in the upper part of the arm bone, near the shoulder joint, often caused by falls or trauma.
- Clavicle (Collarbone) Fractures: A common fracture that occurs from a direct blow to the shoulder, often seen in sports injuries or car accidents.
- Scapula (Shoulder Blade) Fractures: Although less common, fractures of the shoulder blade can occur from high-impact trauma like car accidents or falls.
Types of Minimally Invasive Procedures for Shoulder Fractures
- Arthroscopic Surgery: Arthroscopy is one of the most common minimally invasive techniques used in orthopedic surgery. In this procedure, a small camera called an arthroscope is inserted through a tiny incision, allowing the surgeon to view the shoulder joint and guide surgical tools to repair the fracture.
- Percutaneous Fixation: This technique involves the use of small incisions to insert screws or plates, guided by imaging technologies like X-rays or CT scans, to stabilize and fix the broken bones. This approach minimizes the need for large open incisions.
- Intramedullary Nailing: For fractures of the proximal humerus, intramedullary nails (thin metal rods) can be inserted through a small incision into the bone canal to stabilize the fracture. This method provides strong fixation with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
The Recovery Process
After minimally invasive shoulder surgery, the recovery process typically begins with immobilization of the shoulder using a sling. Most patients will start physical therapy soon after surgery to restore mobility and strength. Because minimally invasive surgeries cause less tissue damage, patients often experience a faster return to normal activities compared to those who undergo traditional open surgery.
