Name of the Procedure:

Bone Anchoring (Common names: Screw fixation, Anchor implantation)
Medical term: Anchor/Screw for Opposing Bone-to-Bone or Soft Tissue-to-Bone (Implantable) (HCPCS Code: C1713)

Summary

Bone anchoring using screws is a surgical procedure where a special screw or anchor is implanted to join bones or secure soft tissue to bone. This helps to stabilize and support bones or tissues that are weakened or damaged, promoting proper healing and function.

Purpose

This procedure addresses conditions involving bone fractures, joint instability, or soft tissue injuries where direct attachment to the bone is required.
Goals:

• Stabilize bone fractures.
• Promote healing of soft tissues like tendons and ligaments.
• Restore functionality and strength to the affected area.

Indications

• Bone fractures that need stabilization.
• Ligament, tendon, or cartilage injuries requiring reattachment to bone.
• Joint instability due to ligament tear.
• Patients exhibiting pain, loss of function, or deformity that impedes daily activities.

Preparation

• Fasting for several hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments to current medications as advised by the healthcare provider.
• Diagnostic imaging tests (e.g., X-rays, MRI) to assess the injury.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Administered as general or regional, depending on the patient's condition and procedure extent.
2. Incision: A small incision is made at the affected site.
3. Placement: Using specialized tools, the surgeon drills a hole into the bone and inserts the screw or anchor.
4. Attachment: The fractured bone segments or soft tissues are securely attached to the anchor.
5. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Tools:

• Power drill
• Screws or anchors
• Suturing materials

Duration

Typically, the procedure takes 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity of the injury.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital operating room or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon or a specialized surgical team
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses and technicians

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Infection at the surgical site
• Bleeding or hematoma
• Allergic reaction to anesthesia

Rare Risks:

• Hardware failure requiring further surgery
• Nerve or blood vessel damage
• Chronic pain or stiffness

Benefits

• Stabilization of fractured bones
• Enhanced healing of soft tissue injuries
• Improved joint function and reduced pain Timeline: Benefits may be realized within weeks to months as healing progresses.

Recovery

• Follow post-operative care instructions, including wound care, medications, and physical therapy.
• Avoid strenuous activities for several weeks.
• Regular follow-up appointments for monitoring. Expected Recovery Time: Most patients recover within 6-12 weeks.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical treatments such as casting or bracing
• Minimally invasive procedures like arthroscopy Pros and Cons: Non-surgical treatments might be less invasive with quicker initial recovery but may not offer the same level of stabilization.

Patient Experience

During: Patients under anesthesia will not feel pain but may experience some discomfort post-procedure. After: Some pain, swelling, and bruising are normal. Pain management includes prescribed medications and applying ice packs. Comfort Measures: Supportive care from medical staff and use of mobility aids as needed.