Radiology of devices for fracture treatment in the extremities

This article describes the appearance and application of various mechanical devices used in the treatment of fractures. It is intended to familiarize the reader with the biologic and biomechanical principles underlying the design and application of particular devices as well as to explain and demystify some of the orthopedic vocabulary used to describe them. Once a fracture has been recognized and treatment has begun, the role of the radiologist in the management of the patient shifts from diagnosis to follow-up. The purpose of the radiologic report is no longer the detection, localization, and description of the fracture but, rather, the description of the mode and progress of treatment and surveillance for the occurrence of complications. It is therefore important for the radiologist to be familiar with the application and normal radiologic appearance of devices used in the treatment of fractures.