Bone fractures are among the most common orthopedic injuries, affecting millions of people every year. If you fracture a bone, you may be concerned about the recovery process, how long it will take, and what to expect as the bone heals.
In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about bone fracture repair, including the treatment process and typical timeline.
When is Bone Fracture Repair Necessary?
Not all fractures require the bone fracture repair procedure. In some cases, the fracture will naturally heal if the patient wears a cast or splint and follows other guidelines from their physician.
However, if the fracture won’t heal properly with a cast or splint alone, your physician may recommend bone fracture repair. This procedure is often required for compound fractures (when the bone protrudes from the skin) and fractures affecting a joint.
What Does Bone Fracture Repair Involve?
Bone fracture repair is a surgical procedure that involves, as the name suggests, repairing the bone by stabilizing it with metal rods, screws, pins, or plates. These implants hold the bone in the proper position while it heals to preserve the patient’s mobility and prevent future issues.
During bone fracture repair, your surgeon will return the fractured bone to its normal anatomical position. After the procedure, most patients require six to eight weeks for the fracture to fully heal. This period may differ depending on the type and location of your fracture. Pain medications, rest, cold therapy, and elevating the fractured limb can help reduce post-operative pain.
At Hernando Orthopaedic and Spinal Surgery, we provide trauma and fracture care to help our patients return to full function as soon as possible while preventing recurring pain. If you’re suffering from swelling, tenderness, pain, bruising, numbness, limited mobility, and other signs of a fracture, schedule an appointment at our clinic today.