Repairing Broken Bones With ORIF Surgery

Open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) is performed during surgery when a bone has been severely shattered. Only severe fractures that cannot be repaired using a cast or splint are treated with it.

Only serious fractures need ORIF surgery. It is often carried out as an urgent operation. Your bone may need to be realigned and kept in place with implants or plates while it heals if it is broken. An orthopedic surgeon, a medical professional with specialized training in addressing bone, joint, and muscle issues, conducts this procedure. If you need ORIF for your broken bones, contact Chula Vista open reduction internal fixation surgery clinic.

Repairing broken bones with ORIF surgery

Depending on the injury and complication risk, your surgery may be done immediately or organized in advance. You might need to fast and stop taking some medications before your operation.

Before the procedure, you might receive a:

• Medical examination
• Blood test
• X-ray
• CT scan

The doctor will be able to examine your broken bone with the help of these tests.

The ORIF involves two steps. Depending on the fracture, the procedure could go on for many hours.

You will receive general anesthesia from an anesthesiologist. This will put you to sleep deeply so you will not feel any pain during the procedure. You could be given a breathing tube to assist you with breathing properly.

Open reduction is the very first step. The surgeon will make an opening in the skin and relocate the bone to its original place.

Internal fixation makes up the second part. The surgeon will affix metal rods, bolts, plates, or pins to keep the bone together. The location and type of the fracture determine the kind of hardware that is used.

Depending on the location and nature of the fracture, the surgeon will apply a bandage, cover the incision with sutures or staples, and possibly place the leg in a cast or splint.

What to expect after the surgery

After ORIF, medical professionals are going to keep an eye on your pulse, breathing, and blood pressure. The nerves close to the broken bone will also be evaluated.

Depending on your procedure, you could be able to leave the hospital the same day or spend a few days there. You could return home later that day if you suffer an arm fracture. You might have to remain longer if you suffer a leg fracture.