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Collarbone fracture

The collarbone, also referred to as the clavicle, is the most commonly broken bone in the upper body. Fractures of the clavicle are often the result of falls or accidents. While some clavicle fractures can be conservatively treated by immobilizing the arm in a sling, more severe fractures often require surgery.

In cases that require surgical repair, your doctor may recommend the CRx Clavicle Fracture Repair Implant, an FDA-cleared, implantable device from Sonoma Orthopedics.

A quick outpatient surgery is all that’s required. Using small incisions, your surgeon can place the flexible CRx implant within the bone, where it conforms to the natural curvature of your clavicle. Once in place, internal grippers are activated to transform the device into a rigid structure that provides the support your collarbone needs while it heals.

The CRx eliminates the need for larger incisions, minimizes soft tissue trauma and requires less hardware. The minimally-invasive nature of the procedure means less pain and a more satisfying cosmetic result.

 
Wrist

Wrist fracture

The radius, one of 2 bones of the arm, is the most frequently broken bone in the forearm. When the radius breaks close to the wrist, surgery may be required to stabilize the bone in place while it heals.

In the case of severe fractures, your doctor may recommend the WRx implant from Sonoma Orthopedics. Designed to be inserted into your fractured radius, the Sonoma WRx provides the support your broken bone needs for healing.

The minimally invasive procedure requires only a single small incision, and can be completed on an outpatient basis. The WRx, when inserted into the bone is flexible. Once in place the device is transformed into a rigid structure with an ingenious internal gripper system to support the fractured bone from the inside out.

The WRx eliminates the need for a larger incision, requires less hardware, and results in less soft tissue trauma. Patients generally experience less pain and a more satisfactory cosmetic result.

 
Answers for patients
How does the Sonoma Orthopedic Products implant work?
The Sonoma Orthopedic Products implant is placed inside the bone by your orthopedic surgeon through a small incision. The implant is flexible to allow it to conform to the curvature of the bone and provides rigid support from inside the bone while the fracture heals.
How long does the procedure take?
The surgery can be performed as a same-day, outpatient procedure in either a hospital or surgery center. Prior to your surgery, your doctor will explain the surgical procedure. The complexity of the fracture often determines the length of surgery.
Will I experience pain?
Like other surgical procedures, you may experience pain which should be easily controlled with pain medications. Sonoma Orthopedic Products devices are designed to be implanted by your surgeon through small incisions to minimize soft tissue trauma and pain. If you experience uncomfortable pain, you should contact your surgeon immediately.
What do I do after surgery?
You doctor and physical therapist will provide you with instructions after your surgery. Many patients have reported minimal pain after surgery with the Sonoma Orthopedic Products.

It is important to follow your healthcare professional’s instructions after surgery even if you don’t experience pain. Over stressing the fracture prior to it healing may lead to a malunion, nonunion, or even damage to the implant which could require a secondary surgical procedure.

Typically, after surgery you will be fitted with a split/brace (wrist procedures) or sling (for shoulder and clavicle fracture procedures) to protect your broken bone for at least 6 to 8 weeks while it begins to heal. After a month, your physician will instruct you to perform some basic strengthening exercises. After 12-16 weeks, your physician may allow you to return to normal activity or sports.
How long will it take to heal?
Many factors can affect how bones heal. It is important to follow the post-operative guidelines recommended by your doctor and physical therapist to avoid delaying the healing process. Typically bones can take up to 8 to 12 weeks to heal.
Is the device removable?
The implants are designed to be removed. Your surgeon will determine if and when it is appropriate to remove the device after your bone heals. This will require a minor surgical procedure.
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