What is ORIF (Open Reduction Internal Fixation)
Open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) procedure aims at fixing a bone fracture that is considered to be very serious and in case realignment of the bone to the normal position is required with the help of screws, plates and other equipment.
ORIF surgery is a common procedure and is applicable for different bone segments of the body, including the hip, knee, arms, and thighs. ORIF surgery is performed by orthopedic surgeons who have specialization in the musculoskeletal structure of the human body.
Who needs ORIF?
ORIF surgery is performed to stabilize the broken bone, which could be in any part of the body. The following are some of the common conditions that are treated with the help of ORIF surgery:
The bone pieces such as the knee, hip, tibia-fibula, humerus, and femur are significantly out of alignment.
The bone pieces are piercing out through the skin.
The part of the bones in the above-mentioned parts of the body is fractured, leading to the formation of several pieces.
The fracture involves a knee joint.
The healing of the bones is not normal even after undergoing conservative treatment.
Open reduction means open surgery aimed to set the bones as may be necessary after a fracture, while internal fixation means fixing of plates or screws and intramedullary bone nails in the case of humerus, tibia or femur bones to facilitate in the overall process of healing.
Micromotion across the lines of fracture is prevented with rigid fixation which not only helps promote healing but also prevents further infection which can happen when plates such as dynamic compression plates are used as implants.
RECOVERY
One of the main components of recovery is pain management after ORIF surgery. ORIF recovery time varies from one patient to the other, It also depends on the exact location of the surgery. ORIF ankle surgery recovery time is different from that of ORIF surgery of the hip. Recovery is typically painful and hence proper pain management is required after the ORIF surgery. Acetaminophen and codeine are usually prescribed. Research results reveal that ibuprofen or other kinds of nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs can slow down the process of healing during the recovery period. So these should be avoided during the recovery period.
Healing regimen physical therapy is also introduced during the recovery period since the body part that suffered the trauma will be held in an immobilized position for a very long period of time. As a result, the tendons, ligament, and muscles may grow weak with time.
With physical therapy, the strength comes back and endurance of the affected area increases with a range of motion. Physical therapy includes exercises, nerve stimulation, cold and hot packs, and ultrasound.
