Impact of innovations in surgical techniques and advanced imaging on postoperative recovery and reduction of complications in patients with long bone fractures: a systematic review

Abstract

Long bones fracture is one of the most complicated surgeries in orthopedics and the progress in the techniques as well as technologies used has recorded a steady progression in the last few years. Minimally invasive surgery (MIS), computer-assisted surgery and improved imaging techniques can all be cited as impacting on emerging practices. Conversely, the success of such techniques and their influences on the performance results should continue to be assessed in order to adjust the treatment approaches and patients’ conditions. This paper aimed at reviewing and researching current journals and literature on the topic of managing long bone fractures with specific emphasis on the new developments in surgery, imaging, and after care. Included articles were randomized control trials, cohort studies, meta-analysis, from reputable orthopedic journals and evaluated both effectiveness, and adverse outcomes of these advancements. In light of the study, it emerges that less invasive procedures in thoracic surgery lead to fewer postoperative complications and quicker convalescence time among the patients; and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and intraoperative fluoroscopy improves diagnostic accuracy and also surgical localization. Computer assisted surgery and augmented reality have been recognized as useful adjuncts in both the preoperative planning and intra operative navigation through the surgical field but they are still not widely used due to the costs associated with the purchase of equipment and initial technical difficulties. In particular, the use of these technologies successfully advanced the clinical efficiency in the treatment of long bone fractures.