Dr. Cole performs fracture repair in Memphis, realigning a broken bone and holding it with hardware such as plates, screws, or rods. It is used for fractures that are unstable, badly displaced, or involve a joint, after simpler measures are ruled out.

Medical illustration of Fracture Repair (ORIF)

What is Fracture Repair (ORIF)?

Fracture repair, often called open reduction and internal fixation, or ORIF, realigns the broken bone and holds it in place with hardware.

Open reduction means the bone is realigned through an incision; internal fixation means plates, screws, rods, or pins keep it steady while it heals. It is used when a fracture will not heal well in a cast, such as when the pieces are badly out of place, the fracture is unstable, or the break involves a joint surface that must be set precisely. The goal is to hold the bone in good position so it can heal and the nearby joints can move. Not every fracture needs it; many heal without surgery.

What happens during Fracture Repair (ORIF), step by step?

Under anesthesia, the surgeon makes an incision to reach the bone, realigns the pieces, and secures them with hardware chosen for the fracture.

The hardware often stays in place permanently, though it can be removed later if it causes problems. Dr. Cole will explain the specific fixation used and why.

What is recovery like after Fracture Repair (ORIF)?

Recovery depends on which bone was repaired and the fracture pattern.

Bone healing often takes several weeks to a few months, and weight-bearing and motion are advanced gradually during that time, according to general guidance from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. These are ranges, not promises. Physical therapy usually helps restore motion and strength, and your surgical team will set the schedule for your fracture.

Who performs fracture repair (orif) in Memphis?

Jeff Cole is a orthopedic surgeon who performs fracture repair (orif) in Memphis, TN. Fellowship trained at Washington University / Barnes-Jewish Hospital. Dr. Cole sees patients at the practice in Memphis; appointments can be requested through this site.

Common questions

What does ORIF stand for?

It stands for open reduction and internal fixation. Open reduction is realigning the bone through an incision, and internal fixation is holding it with hardware such as plates and screws.

Will the hardware stay in my body?

Often, yes. Plates, screws, and rods commonly stay in place permanently. Hardware is sometimes removed later if it causes irritation or other problems.

Which fractures need surgery instead of a cast?

Fractures that are unstable, badly out of place, or that involve a joint surface often need surgery to heal in good position. Many other fractures heal well in a cast.

How long until the bone heals after fracture repair?

Bone healing often takes several weeks to a few months depending on the bone, according to general guidance from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. This is a range, not a promise.

Educational information only. This page does not replace an examination or medical advice.

Reviewed by Jeff Cole

Orthopedics

Fellowship trained at Washington University / Barnes-Jewish Hospital. Sees patients in Memphis.

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Reviewed by the physician