Ankle Fracture Fixation

One of the most common surgical techniques used to treat ankle fractures is open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). ORIF is designed to bring the bones back into alignment to stabilize and heal the broken bones. The process of open reduction involves the repositioning of the fractured bone fragments to restore their proper alignment, while internal fixation is the surgical method used to physically connect the bones in ORIF. ORIF is the gold standard treatment for unstable fractures.

It is an urgent procedure performed under general anesthesia. During ORIF the surgeon makes an incision to expose the fractured bone and then uses screws, plates, or other hardware to fix the bone in place. ORIF is the preferred treatment for unstable ankle fractures, because it allows for immediate weight-bearing and can result in quicker recovery times compared to other surgical and non-surgical treatments.

After surgery, you will wake with your lower leg, ankle and foot in a cast or splint to hold the bones in place while they heal, usually 6-12 weeks.  Post-operative care involves pain management and restricted weight bearing for about six weeks.  You will receive complete post-operative instructions from your LALL Orthopedics+ surgeon.

Complications from ORIF are common to all types of surgery and include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, blood clots and failure to heal.

Another surgical technique used to treat ankle fractures is external fixation. External fixation involves using pins or screws that are attached to an external frame to hold the fractured bone in place. This technique is often used for complex ankle fractures or when the patient’s overall health may not allow for more invasive surgical techniques. External fixation is less invasive than ORIF and can be used in cases where there is soft tissue damage or other complications that may make ORIF more difficult.

Minimally invasive surgical fixation is a satisfactory method to treat certain types of ankle fractures in high-risk patients that can be helpful to avoid complications with conventional open reduction and internal fixation.

Recovery from ankle fracture fixation can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the type of surgical technique used. Patients who undergo ORIF can often bear weight on the affected foot immediately after surgery, although they may require crutches or a walker for a period of time. External fixation may require a longer period of immobilization and rehabilitation, as the pins or wires used to hold the bone in place can cause discomfort and may require additional care.

Regardless of the type of surgical technique used, rehabilitation is an important part of the recovery process for ankle fracture fixation. Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion, reduce pain and swelling, and restore strength and mobility to the affected foot. Patients may also be advised to avoid certain activities, such as high-impact sports, until the fracture is fully healed.