Accidents or injuries can cause your bones to be unstable, displaced, or broken in multiple places of your body. Although there are many treatment options, surgery is often the best option to help your bone heal properly. Most people fear surgical processes because of the pain associated and the after-effects. However, the case is different with Chula Vista open reduction internal fixation surgery since the procedure is safe and effective and works to alleviate your condition for the better.
This procedure entails using a 2-step process to knit your bones fragment together to reduce pain, realign broken bones, and restore mobility. If this procedure sounds new, here is everything you need to know about open reduction internal fixation surgery.
Understanding open reduction internal fixation surgery
It is a type of surgery mainly used to fix broken bones in areas like your elbow, hand, shoulder, and wrist. First, the orthopedic surgeon reduces or puts the broken bone back in the right place. The surgeon, therefore, uses an internal fixation device to correctly line up the bone using internal hardware like screws, rods, pins, and plates. This is usually done to position your fracture for healing so you can resume your normal body functioning.
What risk factors can lead to broken bones?
Typically, your bone health is affected by various lifestyle habits. Addictive smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol intensify your risk of broken bones. Also, chronic health conditions like diabetes and obesity affect your bone health, leading to broken bones. You should constantly talk to your orthopedic specialist to understand anything that may raise your risk of such problems.
How does ORIF work?
Before the procedure, the orthopedic surgeon conducts a detailed physical to analyze your situation. Imaging tests like x-rays, MRIs, and CT scans may also be done. ORIF surgery is done under general anesthesia to remove discomfort or pain during the surgery. The orthopedic surgeon then makes an incision in the fracture and uses internal hardware to position your fracture for healing properly.
Are there any possible complications with ORIF?
Just like many procedures, most of them have risks. However, the risks associated with ORIF are minimal. You may experience the effects of the reaction of anesthesia, infection, mild bleeding, or nerve damage. While this will depend on your chosen surgeon, the side effects are mild and disappear within a few days.
Potential risks of not undergoing ORIF
Some ignore this procedure, but this will only do more harm than good. Without an ORIF surgery, your fractures will not fully heal, and you must live with the consequences. This surgery ensures that your fractured bones heal in their natural alignment.
What is the post-procedure care with ORIF?
The surgery takes several hours, but you must stay in the hospital for a few days. During this period, you will receive care for the surgical wound to prevent infections. Also, you will be taught how to exercise to build strength and range of motion. Your provider will also recommend physical therapy to boost the health of your bones. If you stick to the set guidelines, you can quickly recover.
Snubbing a joint fracture means you are a candidate for future health problems. However, visiting an orthopedic specialist in case of injury or pain in your bones goes in handy in alleviating your condition for the better. Also, ensure you understand the procedure’s needs, risks, and benefits before consenting.
