Here at Capital Surgical Associates, we specialize in delivering unparalleled fracture care in Boise. Our expert orthopedic surgical team, led by Dr. Applonie is dedicated to providing top-notch solutions for patients who have recently experienced bone fractures.
We understand that every fracture is unique, and our comprehensive approach focuses on determining the most suitable treatment options for your case. Whether it's a hip fracture, forearm fracture, clavicle fracture, shoulder fracture, or any other type requiring surgical intervention, our goal is to realign and stabilize the fractured bone, ensuring proper healing and restoring function.
With our expertise and patient-centered care, you can trust us to guide you through a successful recovery and help you regain an active and fulfilling life.
Common Types of Fractures
Common areas fractures occur:
- Wrist (distal radius or scaphoid)
- Shoulder (proximal humerus)
- Ankle
- Clavicle
- Hip (Femoral neck or Intertrochanteric)
- Elbow (radial head, olecranon, or distal humerus)
- Forearm
- Knee (tibial plateau or patella)
- Shin (tibia)
- Foot
- Hand
Types of fractures:
- Open or closed
- Greenstick
- Transverse
- Spiral
- Oblique
- Compression
- Comminuted
- Segmental
Why Does a Fracture Require Surgery?
Not every fracture requires surgery. Several factors, such as the fracture's location, the fragments' displacement, the pattern, and the patient's age are considered when determining the need for surgical intervention.
Which Fractures Require Surgery?
While deciding to perform surgery ultimately depends on individual circumstances, certain types of fractures commonly require surgical treatment. These include:
What Happens If You Wait Too Long To Fix A Fracture?
Opting against surgical intervention for a fracture can have significant repercussions. Surgery is often recommended to realign and stabilize the fractured bone, promoting proper healing. If surgery is not performed, the following complications may arise:
- Loss of joint or limb function
- Permanent deformity or disability
- Chronic pain
- Need for more invasive surgery
- Inability to have corrective surgery
What Happens During Fracture Repair Surgery?
During fracture repair surgery, the primary objective is to realign and stabilize the fractured bone using various surgical methods. The specific approach taken depends on the nature and location of the fracture. Here are some common surgical procedures used in fracture repair:
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Open Reduction Internal Fixation (ORIF): The ORIF technique is a common treatment where a surgeon aligns and stabilizes the fractured bone(s) with plates, screws, and rods. Holding the bones in their proper place, this provides stabilization for optimal healing.
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Intramedullary Nailing (Rod Fixation): During this procedure, a surgeon inserts a metal rod through the center of the bone via small incisions. It is then secured with screws to give increased stabilization during the healing process.
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Joint Replacement Procedures: In certain cases, a joint replacement might be necessary to treat more extreme fractures where the two previous surgeries would be unsuccessful. As the name suggests, the damaged joint is replaced with a prosthetic to restore mobility and ease possibly lingering pain.
Recovery from Fracture Repair Surgery:
Your doctor at Capital Surgical Associates will prepare you for life after surgery prior to the procedure, and send you home with a personalized care plan, but here are a few general tips that will make your recovery better:
- Limit bearing weight on operated arm or leg for up to 6-8 weeks.
- Use cast, splint, or sling for the requested amount of time made by your surgeon.
- Expect to undertake some physical therapy once your fracture has healed and the surgeon clears you to begin restoring strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
- Take any pain medications as prescribed to effectively manage any discomfort after the surgery or while recovering.
- Anticipate a full recovery from a fractured bone to take several weeks to months, depending on the location of the injury and surgery that was required to repair it.