Professional
Technical
IVT
rigid fixation
Surgical technique using plates and screws to immobilize bone segments after osteotomy.
Full Definition
A surgical technique employing titanium plates, screws, and other hardware to provide stable immobilization of bone segments following osteotomy procedures in craniofacial surgery. Rigid fixation eliminates the need for intermaxillary fixation (jaw wiring) in most cases, allowing for earlier function and improved patient comfort. The technique provides three-dimensional stability, promotes proper bone healing, and maintains surgical corrections during the healing period. Hardware may be permanent or removed in subsequent procedures.
Usage
Usage note: Contrast with 'wire fixation' or 'intermaxillary fixation' which are less rigid stabilization methods.
In Context
- "Rigid fixation with titanium miniplates secured the osteotomy sites." — Operative technique
- "The advantages of rigid fixation include elimination of post-operative intermaxillary fixation." — Surgical planning discussion
Also known as
internal fixation
plate fixation
Contrasted with
wire fixation
external fixation
Don't confuse with
intermaxillary fixation
external fixation