A bone fracture will most likely occur from trauma where the bone is hit by great force or is stressed to the point of breaking. Such fractures could occur during a car accident or from a fall. Certain medical conditions, including osteoporosis or cancer can also weaken bones and make them more prone to fractures.

Differences Between Types of Fractures

Most fractures that occur can be categorized as simple fractures. Also known as a closed fracture, a simple one occurs when the bone breaks or cracks but does not poke through the skin. When the bone does pierce the skin, the fracture is then considered to be a compound fracture or open fracture. Surgery is usually needed to repair the damage from a compound fracture. The surgeon would need to repair the broken bone and the damage to the skin and other soft tissues that may be damaged. A compound fracture carries a high-risk of infection because of the exposure of the broken bone.

The most severe type of fracture is the complex fracture.

A fracture is considered complex when:

• Bone fragments are broken into numerous pieces
• There is severe damage to soft tissues.
• Bone has been loss because of severe trauma
• The cartilage has suffered severe damage in the joint
• Multiple fractures have occurred in a single bone.
• A joint dislocation has occurred with the fractured bone

Repairing Complex Fractures with Open Reduction Surgery

Internal fixation/open reduction surgery is needed to stabilize complex fractures. This procedure is generally performed on an emergency basis in a hospital because of the immediate need to treat a complex fracture. During the surgery, the surgeon will access the fractured bone through an incision made directly above the injured area. He will then perform an open reduction, which is putting the bone back into its natural position.

During the internal fixation, the surgeon may use special implants to stabilize the bone and keep it properly positioned.

Implants that may be used include:

• Rods that may be placed through a bone’s hollow center and secured with screws
• Plates are used as internal splints to hold pieces of bone together by being connected to the bone with screws
• Screws can be used alone to hold bone together or with plates or rods
• Pins are used when bones are too small to use screws

Some hardware may be removed after the fracture has healed, while some, such as plates are left in place. The patient will usually stay in the hospital at least one day and maybe up to a week after an internal fixation/open reduction surgery.

Preeminent Open Reduction Surgery Care

It is important to seek prompt medical attention if you have symptoms of a fracture. Dr. Howard Marans of OCOrthopedic+ performs internal fixation and open reduction surgery. The Doctor usually sees patients on the same day of their call. For prompt treatment, please click below to schedule your consultation – or – call 714.979.8981.