Fig. 1

Orthopaedic surgeons use fluoroscopy to stabilize and span a comminuted proximal tibia fracture. Metal partially threaded half pins, frequently called Schanz screws, are placed far away from the zone of injury around the knee. Composite rods span the traumatized area, providing axial, bending, and rotation stability. They allow the swelling and soft tissues to recover before definitive surgical fracture fixation at a later date.