Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is a highly effective surgical procedure employed to mend a fractured bone. Open reduction entails the surgeon making an incision to access the bones, adjusting them back to their regular position. Internal fixation involves the use of metal screws, plates, sutures, or rods to stabilise the bone, helping its healing process.

At Apollo Hospitals in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, we have highly experienced orthopaedic surgeons who are specialised in open reduction and internal fixation. With state-of-the-art facilities, leading-edge treatments, and advanced technologies, we have established ourselves as one of the best hospitals for open reduction and internal fixation in Hyderabad.

Indications for ORIF

ORIF is conducted on either an arm or a leg to address fractures that cannot adequately heal with just a cast or splint. Your surgeon might recommend ORIF under the following circumstances:

• The bone is fragmented into multiple pieces.
• The bone protrudes through the skin.
• The bone is misaligned.
• A prior closed reduction, without skin incisions, failed to promote proper healing.
• Dislocation of a joint has occurred.

The purpose of this surgery is to facilitate the appropriate healing of your bone, resulting in reduced pain and improved mobility and functionality in your arm or leg.

What Happens During ORIF?

Before Surgery

Doctors will conduct a physical exam, blood tests, X-rays, CT scan, MRI scan to investigate the broken bone. Duration of surgery varies depending on the injury.

During Surgery

General anaesthesia will be administered by the anesthesiologist to induce a deep sleep, preventing pain. Breathing tubes may be used to ensure proper breathing. The surgeon will begin by making an incision in the skin over the bone, carefully repositioning the bone to its correct alignment. Following this, metal plates, rods, sutures, and/or screws will be applied to secure the bone and facilitate the healing process. An X-ray may be conducted to assess the placement of these devices.

To complete the procedure, the incision will be closed using stitches or staples and covered with a bandage. Additionally, a cast or splint will be applied to safeguard the mended area during the healing phase.

After ORIF

Doctors will monitor blood pressure, breathing, and pulse and examine nerves near the broken bone. Length of hospital stay varies; same-day discharge for some surgeries, while others may require one to several days. In case of arm fractures, patients may be discharged on same-day. While leg fractures may necessitate a more extended hospital stay.