ORIF Surgery
(ORIF) is a type of Orthopaedic surgery which is used to treat a committed or complicated fracture. This surgery will stabilize the parts of broken bone. During the surgery, the bone fragments are repositioned to bring normal alignment. The bone fragments are held along with plates, screws or wires. These metallic implants are made up of stainless steel or titanium in order to provide strength to the bone as well as they do not corrode. ORIF can restore the atomic structure of the bone, but it cannot avoid dissecting soft tissues. Emergency internal fixation is one among the most appropriate treatment of displaced femoral neck fractures. ORIF is used for serious fractures that cannot be treated with a cast or splint.
Drawbacks of ORIF are infection at the incision site and swelling. The metallic implants may get dislocated or misaligned. The recovery process can take several months, because bones grow slowly. Other factors which will affect recovery after ORIF surgery are: severity of the fracture, the age of the patient and the type /location of bone broken. Potential complications commonly observed after ORIF include post-surgical infection, malunion, non-union, pain and malrotation and nerve injury.
ORIF Surgery is usually done in two phases. The surgery can take up to 6hrs. General anaesthesia is given to the patient and patient is possibly placed on a breathing tube to assist in breathing properly.
-The first phase is open reduction. The surgeon will cut the skin and move the fragments of bone into the proper position.
-The second phase is internal fixation. The surgeon will attach metal rods, screws, plates or pins to the bone to keep the fragments aligned together. The type of metallic implant used depends on the severity and the kind of fracture.
Finally, the surgeon will close the incision with stitches, apply a bandage and will put the limb into a cast or splint to provide immobilization support for healing of fractured bone.