The Risk Factors of Open Reduction Internal Fixation Surgery

People with complex broken bones often require open reduction and internal fixation surgery, in which the broken bone is returned to its natural position and held in place using screws or rods. Internal fixation surgery is absolutely medically necessary in the situations where it is used. It is important for all patients to understand the potential risks, as well as the benefits, of treatment.  

Possible Complications

It is possible for some complications to occur with open reduction and internal fixation surgery, although the majority of people do not experience any complications. Potential side effects include:

• Bleeding – If a blood vessel is hit during the operation, bleeding may occur. Bleeding may also occur after surgery. Bleeding is controllable when caught, and is sometimes self-limited.
• Infection – Infection may occur during or after internal fixation surgery. Infection may affect only the wound, or bacteria may infect the bone itself. Bone infections are a very serious complication, for which patients are carefully monitored at the hospital.
• Blood clots – Blood clots can form during or after surgery, especially since mobility is limited following surgery, allowing blood to pool in the legs. If dislodged, blood clots can cause issues such as stroke and pulmonary embolism. The treatment team will monitor for signs of blood clots during the hospital stay. In addition, early activity the day of the surgery can help prevent this complication.
• Reaction to anesthesia – Some patients react to the anesthesia used during surgery. The anesthesiologist will monitor the patient’s reaction throughout the surgery. Patients who have a history of reaction to anesthesia, or a family history of reactions, should be sure to inform the treatment team before the procedure.

In rare cases, people may experience severe complications, up to and including death, as a result of open reduction and internal fixation.

Understanding Risk

There are some risks associated with the surgical treatment of broken bones, and it is important for patients undergoing open reduction and internal fixation to understand those risks. However, the risks associated with not getting treatment for broken bones are much greater. In addition, the majority of patients do not experience any complications.   

No action, from taking a flight to driving a car to using a pressure cooker, is without risk. Every day we weigh the risks and benefits in order to decide what to do in certain situations. The same is true of undergoing surgery. The doctor will not recommend surgery unless he believes the benefits outweigh the risks, but the patient should also understand those risks and make an informed decision to participate in or abstain from treatment.

If you have a broken bone, Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about treatment. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.