Modern traumatology is the result of a combination of scientific achievements, practical experience and engineering innovations. Hundreds of thousands of patients return to active life every year thanks to the development of osteosynthesis and the introduction of high-quality trauma implants. Let’s take a look at ten key discoveries that have radically changed the treatment of fractures.
- Anaesthesia
Until the mid-19th century, surgical procedures were performed without anaesthesia, which significantly limited the possibilities of operations in traumatology. After the discovery of ether (1846) and chloroform, it became possible to perform long and complex operations on bones. Today, the use of regional or general anaesthesia is standard for osteosynthesis operations.
- Antiseptics
Thanks to the work of Joseph Lister in the 1860s, who first used carbolic acid to treat wounds, the risk of postoperative infections was reduced. This allowed surgeons to use trauma implants more actively without fear of purulent complications.
- X-ray
Wilhelm Röntgen’s discovery in 1895 literally ‘opened up’ the human body for diagnosis. Thanks to X-rays, doctors can accurately locate a fracture, assess the displacement of fragments and monitor the effectiveness of osteosynthesis. Without X-ray monitoring, modern traumatology would simply be impossible.
- Internal osteosynthesis
A fracture is not just a crack in the bone, but a complex process of disruption of its integrity. Internal osteosynthesis was first used at the end of the 19th century, when silver or steel wires were used. In the 20th century, screws, plates, and intramedullary pins appeared, which made it possible to fix the fragments from the inside. The technique allows for accurate alignment and early mobilisation of the patient.
- Angular stability
This is a revolution in the design of trauma implants. Unlike classic compression plates, angular stability systems (e.g., LCP) provide rigid fixation even in the presence of osteoporosis or fragmentary fractures. The technology was first widely used in the early 2000s in Europe and the United States.
- Biocompatible materials
Steel implants have gradually been replaced by titanium alloys, which are lightweight, strong and biocompatible. They do not oxidise, cause allergies or interfere with MRI scans. Today, titanium implants for osteosynthesis are the gold standard in traumatology.
- Minimally invasive techniques
Classic wide incisions have been replaced by minimal access. Such operations are performed through several small incisions using special guides. Advantages: less blood loss, faster healing of soft tissues, lower risk of infection. This has become particularly relevant in elderly patients and in the treatment of diaphyseal fractures.
- 3D printing of implants
This technology allows the creation of trauma implants that are precisely adapted to the patient’s anatomy, particularly in complex reconstructive surgeries. 3D implants were first used in traumatology in the mid-2010s. Personalised solutions offer new opportunities for patients with large bone defects.
- Computer navigation
Intraoperative visualisation allows the surgeon to position implants for osteosynthesis with high precision, reducing the risk of errors. The first systems appeared in neurosurgery, and later in orthopaedics and traumatology. Today, navigation is actively used in complex fractures of the pelvis, spine and in orthopaedic reconstructions.
- ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) protocols
This is a modern concept of postoperative care that combines optimal pain relief, early mobilisation, reduced antibiotic therapy and individual rehabilitation. Thanks to ERAS, patients return to an active life more quickly, even after complex osteosynthesis.
Each of these medical discoveries has been a step towards the rapid and complete recovery of patients after severe injuries.
The development of traumatology and osteosynthesis continues, and modern implants play a key role in the quality of fracture treatment. Bauer’s Synthes manufactures implants that meet all modern requirements for effective and biocompatible trauma treatment.