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Background
Internal fixation devices help maintain the alignment of fractured bone to assist the natural healing process. Radiographic imaging is routinely used to diagnose and monitor fractures, assess the location and stability of fixation devices, and check for potential complications that occasionally occur with fixation device use. Radiologists frequently observe these fixation devices on the images they interpret, yet a formal review of these devices is not common in residency training. This educational exhibit aims to teach residents about the radiographical features of the most common internal orthopedic fixation devices.

Educational Goals / Teaching Points
The exhibit reviews the most commonly used appendicular internal fracture fixation devices, discusses why and when they are used, and briefly explains how they function. It will illustrate radiographic examples of these medical devices, compare these radiographs with real photographs of the devices, and explain key differences to distinguish between similar devices.

Key Anatomic/Physiologic Issues and Imaging Findings/Techniques
The exhibit begins with a brief overview of internal fixation devices, then delves into a review of the common devices, including screws, plates, pins, nails, wires, rods, and other related devices. Discussion of the hardware will begin with the basics, such as the anatomy and material, then progress into the specific features that differentiate each of the devices. Real photographs of the devices will be utilized as a visual aid to highlight the differences seen on radiographic studies.

Conclusion
A formal review of orthopedic internal fixation devices is not common in standard radiology residency training, yet these devices are commonly encountered in routine appendicular imaging. This exhibit provides a review of the most commonly used devices and compares the radiographic imaging to real photographs to improve resident understanding and recognition.