An open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is a type of surgery used to fix broken bones. This is a two-part surgery. First, the broken bone is reduced or put back into place. Next, an internal fixation device is placed on the bone; this can be screws, plates, rods, or pins used to hold the broken bone together.
This surgery is done to repair fractures that would not heal correctly with casting or splinting alone.
Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have this procedure, your doctor will review a list of possible complications which may include:
Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:
General anesthesia may be used. It will block any pain and keep you asleep during the surgery. It is given through an IV (needle in your vein) in your hand or arm. In some instances, a spinal anesthetic, or more rarely a local block, may be used to numb only the area where the surgery will be done. This will depend on where the fracture is located and the time it will take to perform the procedure.
Each ORIF surgery differs based on the location and type of fracture. In general, a breathing tube may be placed to help you breathe while you are asleep. Then, the surgeon will wash your skin with an antiseptic and make an incision. Next, the broken bone will be put back into place. Next, a plate with screws, a pin, or a rod that goes through the bone will be attached to the bone to hold the broken parts together. The incision will be closed with staples or stitches. A dressing and/or cast will then be applied.
After your surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room for observation. If all is well, your breathing tube will likely be removed while you are there. Your heart rate, respirations, blood pressure, and temperature will be checked often. Your pulse and the nerves close to the broken bone will also be checked.
An ORIF surgery can take several hours depending on the fracture and the bone involved.
Anesthesia prevents pain during surgery. You will take pain medicine for pain or soreness during recovery.
This procedure is done in a hospital setting. Your length of stay will depend on your surgery. You may be in the hospital for 1-7 days.
When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:
After you leave the hospital, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:
In case of an emergency, CALL 911.
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
http://www.aapmr.org/condtreat/rehab/hip.htm
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
http://www.niams.nih.gov/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
The Arthritis Society
http://www.arthritis.ca/
Canadian Orthopaedic Association
http://www.coa-aco.org/
References:
Fractures. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery website. Available at: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00097&return_link=0. Accessed September 23, 2009.
Fractures. Merck Manual website. Available at: http://www.mercksource.com/pp/us/cns/cns_merckmanual_frameset.jspzQzpgzEzhttpzCzzSzzSzwwwzPzmerckzPzcomzSzmmhezSzsec24zSzch299666zSzch299666azPzhtml. Accessed September 23, 2009.
Griffin Kellicker P. Hip replacement. EBSCO Health Library. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/thisTopic.php?marketID=15&topicID=81. Last reviewed January 2009. Last updated July 21, 2009. Accessed September 23, 2009.
Kebicz RB. Understanding medical surgical nursing. 3rd ed. F.A. Davis Company; 2007.
Professional Guide to Diseases. 9th ed. Ambler, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2009
Last reviewed October 2009 by Robert E. Leach, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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