Pitfalls of Minimally Invasive Fracture Repair

Minimally invasive fracture repair (MIFR) is the ultimate culmination of current osteosynthesis concepts that emphasize the preservation and enhancement of the biologic components of fracture healing. Although the "less is more" approach to tissue dissection and fracture exposure and handling that defines MIFR has numerous reported advantages over more traditional open surgical treatments, it does present some unique challenges and important considerations for the surgeon. This article describes some of the general MIFR challenges a surgeon may encounter.