ORIF

ORIF is one of the most common ways surgeons fix broken bones that won't heal correctly on their own, like a badly broken wrist, ankle, hip, or arm. "Open reduction" means the surgeon opens the skin and tissue to directly see and realign the bone fragments, rather than setting the bone from outside. "Internal fixation" refers to the plates, screws, rods, or pins placed inside the body to hold everything in position while it heals.

This approach is usually chosen when a fracture is too unstable, shifted, or complex for a cast alone. It's common after fragility fractures in the hip, wrist, and upper arm, especially in older adults, but it's also used for fractures from accidents or sports at any age. The hardware generally stays in place permanently unless it causes problems, though in some cases a surgeon may recommend removal later.

After ORIF, healing involves a period of limited weight-bearing or movement depending on the bone involved, followed by physical therapy to rebuild strength and range of motion. Your surgical team will guide you on timing and restrictions. Since this type of surgery often follows a fall or fragility fracture, it's also a good moment to talk with your doctor about evaluating overall bone health going forward, but decisions about further testing or treatment belong to your medical team.