Ligamentotaxis

Ligamentotaxis is a medical procedure used in the treatment of certain types of fractures and dislocations. It involves the use of the body's own ligaments to realign and stabilize the affected area.

Procedure

Ligamentotaxis is performed by applying a controlled force to the ligaments surrounding the fractured or dislocated bone. This force is typically applied using a device such as a traction system or an external fixator. The tension created by the force helps to pull the bone fragments back into their correct alignment.

The procedure is often used in the treatment of fractures and dislocations of the hand and wrist, as these areas have a high concentration of ligaments that can be used to aid in the realignment process. However, it can also be used in other areas of the body, depending on the nature and location of the injury.

Benefits and Risks

The main benefit of ligamentotaxis is that it is a less invasive procedure than many other types of fracture treatment, such as open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). This can result in less post-operative pain and a quicker recovery time.

However, as with any medical procedure, there are also risks associated with ligamentotaxis. These can include damage to the ligaments themselves, as well as potential complications related to the use of traction or external fixation devices.

See Also

• Orthopedic surgery
• Bone fracture
• Dislocation