A fracture can range in severity from mild to incredibly severe, depending on the location of the injury and several other factors. In some cases, a fracture can be treated with just a cast that will keep the bone in alignment until it is healed. However, if you have suffered a fracture in some areas, the injury could be in a position that will require bone fracture repair surgery for the bone to heal back in its proper position. If you do have to have bone repair surgery, this means that an orthopedic surgeon will have to use pins, screws, plates, or even rods to hold the bone in place as it endures the healing process. Here are a few of the more common questions about bone fracture repair.
Why do some fractures require surgical repair?
If splinting a bone or using a cast will not suffice to hold a bone in the appropriate position while it heals, your doctor will typically recommend that a surgical fixation be used to stabilize the bone as it heals. In many cases, fractures that require some form of fracture stabilization will be those that have occurred around joints, such as the knee, ankle, or wrist. These areas are at a greater risk of seeing mobility and flexibility limited if the bone does not appropriately heal after a fracture.
Are there any risks associated with bone fracture surgery?
In most cases, there is more of a risk associated with not having the fracture repair surgery than there is if you do, because of the fact that the bone may heal improperly and create the need for further treatment down the road. However, there are a few complications that you should be aware of including:
- A risk of developing a blood clot around or near the fracture after surgery.
- An allergic reaction caused by the anesthesia used during surgery.
- Excessive blood loss.
- A risk of developing an infection after surgery.
Even though there are a few risks to consider with a fracture repair surgery, the occurrences of these happenings are rare, especially if you strictly adhere to your surgeon’s recommendations when it comes to follow-up care and treatment.
What should you expect during preparation for fracture repair surgery?
If you have been told that your fracture will require surgery to heal adequately, your doctor will go over several things with you before the scheduled surgery date arrives. Your medical history will be thoroughly evaluated and your physician will go over with you any previous injuries, illnesses, or problems you may have had in the past. The surgeon will likely go over the results of your x-ray or CT scan with you, explaining precisely what will happen during surgery and what you should expect as far as follow-up care. Additionally, the day before your surgery, you will likely not be allowed to eat, drink, or take certain medications beyond a certain time. Your physician will also inform you to bring along a driver with you to the hospital or surgical center because you will not be allowed to drive right after your release.
What is it like recovering from a bone fracture repair surgery?
Right after surgery, you will be held in recovery for a short time to allow anesthesia to wear off. Soon after, you will either be taken to a room if you will be staying at the hospital or receive instructions from the doctor on what to do once you are released. You should expect some pain and swelling at the surgical site, but will likely be given pain medication to help with the discomfort. In most cases, your surgical site will be covered with a large bandage. The staff in charge of your care will give you directions on further appointments, physical therapy that may be required, and when you should call the doctor for advice. If your pain worsens, you see swelling or excessive redness, or start to run a fever, contact your doctor right away.