Fracture Repair and Recovery

If you’ve had a broken bone (fracture) that hasn’t healed properly, or a bone has broken in such a way that it’s unlikely to remain aligned when set with a cast, surgery may be the best solution.

You’ll be glad to know that the specialists at Aspire Orthopedic Institute are some of the region’s most experienced surgeons when it comes to repairing fractures and helping patients heal.

What causes bone fractures?

While bones are strong—in fact, they’re the hardest tissues in your body—they can split or break under too much pressure or force. The most common causes of fractures are:

• Injuries (motor vehicle accidents, falls)
• Bone-weakening diseases such as osteoporosis or tumors
• Prolonged stress from overuse

How are bone fractures repaired surgically?

There are several options for surgery to repair a fractured bone; the type of surgery that’s right for you depends on the location and type of your fracture:

• Open Reduction and Internal Fixation uses surgical hardware to stabilize a fracture beneath the skin. Your surgeon will make an incision and lace your bones in the proper position for healing, then secure the bones together with surgical hardware such as rods, screws or metal plates.
• Open Reduction and External Fixation uses surgical hardware to stabilize a fracture fromoutside the skin. Your surgeon will make an incision and place your bones in the proper position for healing, then secure the bones with surgical pins that are attached to a metal frame on the outside of the skin.

What does recovery from a bone fracture involve?

Recovery time from a bone fracture is different for everyone and depends on the type of fracture you had and the type surgery you underwent. Your surgeon will let you know what to expect. Generally:

• Fractures need about 6 weeks to heal; some can take several months
• The pain will subside before your fracture is completely healed
• Your activities will be limited while your bone is healing
• Physical or occupational therapy usually follows surgery; your therapists will work with you to regain movement, strength and flexibility that may have decreased while your bone or joint was immobile

It’s important to know that the majority of patients are able to return their regular activities once healing is complete.

Want to learn more about fracture repair and recovery at Adventist health Orthopedic Institute?

Simply call us at (503) 261-6961 to schedule an appointment.