At Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, we offer open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) as one of the treatment options for complex bone fractures in the leg. ORIF is a surgical procedure designed to restore the anatomical structure of the bone and restore its function through open access to the fractured area and the use of internal fixates.

Operation ORIF has several key objectives:

  1. Restoration of anatomical bone structure by proper alignment of bone fragments.
  2. Restoration of functionality and normal motor ability of the leg.
  3. Ensuring stability and correct positioning of fractured bone fragments, which shortens recovery time and reduces the risk of complications.
  4. Prevent re-fractures and other complications by proper alignment and internal fixation of the bones.

ORIF surgery is an effective treatment for fractures of the bones of the foot, such as ankle bone fractures, toe fractures including pinky toe fractures and big toe fractures. At Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, we pride ourselves on our experience and expertise in performing this procedure, providing our patients with the best possible results in recovering from their injury.

When Is Fracture Repair (ORIF) Recommended?

The open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) procedure is recommended in the following cases:

  1. Complex fractures: crushing or displacement of bone fragments in several directions.
  2. Fractures not amenable to closed repositioning (use of external fixators without surgical access).
  3. High risk of complications without surgical intervention: disruption of the integrity of blood vessels, nerves or other important structures.
  4. Fractures with instability or risk of re-injury.

ORIF is an effective treatment option for leg bone fractures, especially when conservative methods are ineffective or insufficient to restore function and structure to the leg. At Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, we recommend ORIF according to each patient's individual needs, striving to provide optimal treatment and recovery outcomes.

Preparation for Surgery

Preparing for ORIF surgery involves several important steps that will help ensure a successful and safe procedure.

  • Consultation with the surgeon: discuss all aspects of the surgery, including expected results, possible risks and post-operative period.
  • Investigations and tests: blood tests, x-rays and electrocardiogram. To assess your general health and identify any potential problems that may affect the procedure and postoperative period
  • A few days before surgery: stop taking medications such as aspirin or drugs that affect blood clotting.
  • Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, as this can slow down wound healing.
  • Provide a comfortable place for you to recover from surgery.
  • Arrange for home care for the first few days after surgery.
  • On the eve of the procedure, 6 hours before the procedure, refrain from eating and taking liquids.
  • Take a shower with antibacterial soap.

By following these guidelines and your doctor's instructions, you will help ensure successful and safe ORIF surgery and minimize the risks of complications.

The Fracture Repair (ORIF) Procedure

The open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) procedure is a comprehensive surgical intervention aimed at restoring the anatomical integrity of fractures of the toes, as well as fractures and curvatures of the ankle bone.

Stages of the operation:

  1. Preparation and access: After anesthetizing the area, the surgeon makes a small incision in the skin to access the fractured bone. Sometimes, additional access may be needed through other incisions for better visibility and maneuvering.
  2. Open repositioning: the fractured bone fragments are carefully aligned and returned to their proper anatomical position.
  3. Internal fixation: after bone repositioning, special implants are used to fix the bones in the correct position. These can be metal plates, screws, pins, wires or mesh, which securely fix the bone fragments and provide stability during healing.
  4. Wound closure: After bone fixation, the wound is carefully closed. Depending on the size and location of the wound and the type of implant used for fixation, the wound may be closed using sutures, staples, Steri-Strip or surgical glue.

After surgery, the patient may be placed in a plaster cast or removable orthosis to support and protect the healing area. Medications are prescribed to control pain and prevent infection.

At Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, experienced podiatric surgeon Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM performs this surgery with a high level of professionalism, using state-of-the-art technology and treatments to minimize trauma and speed recovery.

Recovery and Aftercare

The expected recovery period can vary depending on the type and location of the fracture, the patient's overall health, and the effectiveness of postoperative care.

Recommendations

For the first few days, taking pain medication to manage pain and swelling.

After 1–2 weeks - it is recommended to maintain a high level of rest and avoid loads on the operated limb.

After 3–6 weeks - gradually increase the load on the operated limb and start restoring normal activity with physiotherapy. Perform:

  • exercises to improve muscle strength and stability of the operated limb;
  • stretching and flexibility exercises to improve joint flexibility and restore normal range of motion;
  • coordination and balance exercises, to improve strength, flexibility and coordination of movements.

It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, cooperate with the doctor and physiotherapist and carefully monitor the operated area for any signs of complications: infection, swelling, bleeding, changes in skin color and temperature. After six months, following all the doctor's recommendations, most patients regain full functionality of the operated limb.

Why Choose Our Clinic?

Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic offers a number of benefits that make us the ideal choice for ORIF surgery and treatment of other foot and ankle conditions:

  1. Expert medical care.
  2. Highly trained specialists with extensive experience in ORIF and other foot and ankle surgical procedures. We utilize state-of-the-art equipment and advanced technology techniques to ensure optimal results.
  3. A personalized treatment plan tailored to the specifics of each case.
  4. A comprehensive approach to rehabilitation.

Our clinic prides itself on high rates of successful surgeries and patient satisfaction.

When you choose Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, you can be assured of receiving quality care. We are committed to providing our patients with optimal results and recovery after surgery. Make an appointment with a specialist, and we can help you return to an active and healthy life. Our contacts: Tel. (847) 298-3338, Des Plaines.

Contact Us

Have any questions? Reach out to us from our contact form and we will get back to you shortly.

Address
1400 East Golf Rd, Unit 201, Des Plaines, IL 60016

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