Which procedure utilizes hardware to secure bones after a fracture?

The procedure that utilizes hardware to secure bones after a fracture is Open Reduction with Internal Fixation. This surgical technique involves aligning fractured bones directly and then stabilizing them using internal hardware such as plates, screws, or rods. The primary goal of this procedure is to maintain the correct positioning of the bones during the healing process, which facilitates proper recovery and function.

In Open Reduction with Internal Fixation, the surgeon makes an incision to access the fracture site, ensuring that the bones are correctly aligned (reduced). Once properly aligned, the internal fixation devices securely hold the bones in place. This method is particularly beneficial for complicated fractures, as it allows for earlier mobilization and reduces the risk of malunion or nonunion of the fracture.

Other procedures mentioned do not primarily focus on securing fractured bones with hardware. Spinal fusion involves the joining of vertebrae to stabilize the spine, arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure to diagnose or treat joint issues, and bone alignment therapy refers more generally to therapeutic approaches for correcting alignment rather than a surgical intervention with hardware for fractures.