FRACTURE OPEN REDUCTION INTERNAL FIXATION

If you need a Fracture Open Reduction Internal Fixation, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is A Fracture Open Reduction Internal Fixation?

Fracture open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) is a surgical procedure used to treat complex or severe fractures by realigning the broken bones and stabilizing them with the use of internal implants like plates, screws, or rods. ORIF is commonly performed when conservative treatments, such as casting or splinting, are unlikely to provide adequate healing or alignment of the fractured bones.

The procedure involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: The patient is typically given general anesthesia to ensure they are unconscious and pain-free during the surgery.
2. Incision: The surgeon makes an incision over the fractured area to access the broken bones and surrounding tissues.
3. Fracture reduction: The fractured bone fragments are carefully manipulated and aligned back into their anatomical position. This process is called fracture reduction.
4. Internal fixation: Once the fracture is reduced, the surgeon uses specialized implants, such as plates, screws, or rods, to stabilize the bones in their correct position. These implants are placed internally, meaning they are positioned beneath the skin and not visible externally.
5. Closure: After the implants are secured, the incision is closed with sutures, and the surgical site is dressed and bandaged.

Post-operatively, the patient may need to use crutches or a walker to avoid putting weight on the affected limb. The surgeon will provide instructions for post-operative care, including wound care, pain management, and physical therapy exercises to aid in the recovery process.

ORIF is commonly performed on fractures of long bones such as the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shinbone), humerus (upper arm bone), and radius or ulna (forearm bones). It is especially indicated in cases of intra-articular fractures (fractures involving the joint surface), displaced fractures, and unstable fractures that are at risk of further displacement.

Benefits of fracture open reduction internal fixation include early mobilization, better alignment of fractured bones, and improved chances of bone healing. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, such as infection, nerve or blood vessel injury, implant failure, and non-union (failure of the bone to heal). The decision to undergo ORIF is made after a thorough evaluation and discussion with an orthopedic surgeon, who will consider the type and location of the fracture, the patient’s overall health, and their lifestyle to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.