Fracture Fixation Surgery
Fracture fixation involves surgical stabilization of broken bones using plates, screws, rods, or wires. This procedure is necessary when fractures are displaced, unstable, or involve joint surfaces.
When It's Recommended
Indications for this procedure
- Displaced or unstable fractures
- Fractures involving joint surfaces
- Multiple fractures
- Open fractures
- Fractures that fail conservative treatment
- Fractures in bones with poor healing potential
How It's Performed
The procedure explained
The surgical approach varies by fracture location. The bone fragments are realigned (reduced) and held in place with internal fixation devices such as plates and screws, intramedullary rods, or external fixators. The goal is to restore anatomy and allow early mobilization.
Recovery Timeline
What to expect during recovery
Immediate Post-Op (Days 1-14)
What You Can Do
- Wound care
- Pain management
- Swelling control with elevation
- Gentle exercises as permitted
What to Avoid
- Protected weight-bearing
- Immobilization in cast or splint if needed
- No excessive movement of affected area
Early Healing (Weeks 2-6)
What You Can Do
- Physical therapy begins
- Progressive range of motion
- Light strengthening
- Gradual increase in activity
What to Avoid
- Weight-bearing as directed
- Avoid high-risk activities
- Follow specific restrictions for fracture type
Bone Healing (Weeks 6-12)
What You Can Do
- Progressive weight-bearing
- Advanced strengthening
- Return to work (sedentary jobs)
- X-rays to confirm healing
What to Avoid
- No contact sports until cleared
- Avoid heavy lifting
- Gradual progression
Full Recovery (3-12 months)
What You Can Do
- Return to all activities
- Sports and physical work
- Full strength restoration
What to Avoid
- Hardware removal may be needed later (optional)
- Follow-up X-rays to confirm complete healing
Risks & Complications
Important considerations
- Infection
- Non-union or delayed union
- Malunion (improper healing)
- Hardware complications
- Nerve or blood vessel injury
- Compartment syndrome
- Chronic pain or stiffness
All surgical procedures carry some risk. Your surgeon will discuss these in detail during consultation and take measures to minimize complications.
Alternative Treatments
Other options to consider
- Non-surgical cast or brace treatment
- Traction
- External fixation (as alternative or temporary measure)
- Percutaneous pinning (less invasive)
Important Notes:
- Recovery times vary by individual and condition severity
- Follow your surgeon's specific post-operative instructions
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
- Report any unusual symptoms or concerns immediately