Internal fixator is a medical device used to stabilize broken bones. The spelling of this word is phonetically represented as /ɪnˈtɜːnəl fɪksətər/. The first syllable, "in" is pronounced as "ihn". The "ter" in "intern-al" is pronounced as "tər". The second part of the word "fixator" is pronounced as "fɪksətər". The "x" is pronounced as "ks". As such, the correct phonetic transcription for internal fixator is vital for medical professionals to communicate effectively when discussing this device in patient treatment.
An internal fixator refers to a medical device used in orthopedic surgery to stabilize and immobilize fractured bones or bones that have been surgically separated. It is an internal hardware that is applied directly to the fractured bone, providing internal support and maintaining bone alignment during the healing process.
Typically made of metal, an internal fixator consists of plates, screws, rods, or pins that are surgically inserted into the bone fragments. These devices are designed to hold the fractured bone securely in place, allowing healing to occur while minimizing movement or displacement. The specific type and configuration of the internal fixator used depend on various factors such as the location and severity of the fracture.
The primary purpose of an internal fixator is to provide stability to the fractured bone, which allows for optimal healing and prevents further damage. By immobilizing the fractured bone segments, it promotes the alignment of the broken bone ends, facilitating the formation of new bone tissue and restoration of function.
Internal fixators are frequently used in complex fractures or cases where external casting or splinting is insufficient to maintain the position of the bone fragments. They are widely employed in orthopedic surgeries involving long bones like the femur or humerus and are a crucial component in restoring skeletal integrity and function for patients with fractures.
The word "internal fixator" originates from two main components: "internal" and "fixator".
1. Internal: The term "internal" comes from the Latin word "internus", meaning "within" or "inside". In English, it refers to something situated on the inside, within an object or organism.
2. Fixator: The term "fixator" is derived from the Latin verb "fixare", meaning "to fix" or "to fasten". In medical context, a fixator is a device or implant used to stabilize fractured bones or to immobilize a joint during the healing process.
When combined, the term "internal fixator" refers to a type of medical device or implant that is placed inside the body to stabilize fractured bones or joints during the healing process.