What is Fracture Repair and Stabilization?

Expert Care for Broken Bones in the Foot and Ankle

Fracture repair and stabilization is the medical process of treating a broken bone. The primary goal is to ensure the bone heals in its correct anatomical position to restore function, prevent long-term pain, and minimize the risk of future complications like arthritis. Given the intricate structure of the 26 bones in the foot and ankle, treating fractures in this area requires a high level of specialized skill.

At City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, our team of foot and ankle surgeons including Dr. Jason Hymowitz has extensive training in both non-surgical and surgical techniques to repair fractures of the foot and ankle, from simple toe fractures to complex ankle breaks.

Types of Fractures in the Foot and Ankle

A fracture can range from a tiny crack to a complete break. Our team is equipped to treat all types, including:

• Stable Fractures: The bone is broken, but the ends are still aligned properly.
• Stress Fractures: Hairline cracks in the bone, often caused by repetitive stress or overuse.
• Displaced Fractures: The broken ends of the bone are separated and no longer in their correct alignment.
• Comminuted Fractures: The bone is shattered into three or more pieces.
• Avulsion Fractures: A tendon or ligament pulls a small piece of bone away from the main bone.

When is Fracture Treatment Necessary?

Any suspected fracture requires immediate medical evaluation. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential to:

• Ensure the bone heals in the correct position.
• Prevent improper healing (malunion) or failure to heal (nonunion).
• Reduce the risk of developing post-traumatic arthritis.
• Avoid chronic pain, deformity, and loss of function.

Non-Surgical Fracture Treatment: Immobilization

For many stable fractures where the bone is already in a good position, surgery is not necessary. The primary treatment is immobilization, which allows the bone to heal naturally. This is achieved through:

• Casting or Splinting: A hard cast or a supportive splint is applied to hold the foot and ankle still, protecting the broken bone as it mends.
• Walking Boots (CAM Walker): A removable boot can be used to provide stability and protection while allowing for cleaning and, in some cases, limited weight-bearing.
• Non-Weight-Bearing: You will likely be instructed to use crutches to keep all weight off the injured foot for a specific period, which is critical for proper healing.

Surgical Fracture Repair (Open Reduction and Internal Fixation – ORIF)

Surgery is required for more severe fractures to ensure a stable and properly aligned outcome. It is typically recommended for:

• Displaced fractures where the bones are significantly out of alignment.
• Unstable fractures that are likely to shift out of place.
• Fractures that involve a joint surface.
• Multiple fractures or severe injuries.

The most common surgical procedure is called Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF).

1. Open Reduction: The surgeon makes an incision to directly access the broken bone. The bone fragments are then carefully repositioned into their normal anatomical alignment.

2. Internal Fixation: Once aligned, the bones are held together with specialized surgical hardware. This internal hardware, which may include medical-grade screws, plates, wires, or pins, acts as an internal splint to keep the bone stable while it heals.

What to Expect During Recovery

Recovery from a fracture is a gradual process that requires patience and adherence to your surgeon’s instructions.

• Immobilization: A period in a cast or boot is necessary, even after surgery, to protect the healing bone.
• Pain Management: Your doctor will provide a plan to manage post-procedural pain.
• Weight-Bearing: You will be given a specific timeline for when you can begin to put weight on your foot. This is a gradual process, starting with partial weight and progressing to full weight-bearing.
• Physical Therapy: This is a crucial final step. A physical therapist will guide you through exercises to restore your range of motion, strength, and balance, ensuring you make a full and safe return to your activities.Read our Article on The Importance of Physical Therapy: A Path to Recovery and Wellness.

Time to Heal Correctly

If you have suffered a foot or ankle injury, getting the right care quickly is essential. Our specialists are here to provide an accurate diagnosis and a clear treatment plan to ensure you heal properly and get back on your feet.

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