Understanding Femur Fracture Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)

Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) puts the pieces of a broken bone back together so they can heal. Open reduction means the bones are put back in place during a surgery. Internal fixation means that special hardware is used to hold the bone pieces together. This helps the bone heals correctly. The procedure is done by an orthopedic surgeon. This is a doctor with special training in treating bone, joint, and muscle problems.

How does a femur fracture happen?

The femur is the long, thick bone in the upper part of your leg (thigh). Different kinds of injury such as a car accident, sports injury, or fall can cause the femur to break (fracture) into 2 or more pieces. In some cases, the bone may break but the pieces are still lined up correctly. Or, the pieces may not line up correctly. This is called a displaced fracture. 

Why is femur fracture ORIF done?

This type of injury needs ORIF to repair. Without ORIF, your broken femur may not heal normally. You are likely to need ORIF if:

• You have a displaced fracture

• Part of your femur broke through the skin

• Your femur broke into several pieces

How is a femur fracture ORIF done?

The surgery is done by an orthopedic surgeon. This is a surgeon who specializes in treating bone, muscle, joint, and tendon problems. The surgery can be done in several ways. The surgeon will make a cut (incision) through the skin and muscles of your thigh. The surgeon puts the pieces of your femur back in place. This is the reduction. Then special screws, plates, wires, or nails are used to hold the bone pieces together. This is the fixation.

What are the risks of femur fracture ORIF?

All surgery has risks. The risks of femur fracture ORIF include:

• Infection

• Bleeding

• Nerve damage

• Bone healing out of line

• Blood clots

• Fat tissue passes into the bloodstream and blocks a blood vessel (fat embolism)

• Skin irritation from the hardware

• Problems from anesthesia

• Need for more surgery

Your risks vary based on your age and general health. For example, if you are a smoker or if your bones are weak (low bone density), you may have a higher risk of certain problems. People with poorly controlled diabetes may also have a higher risk of problems. Talk with your healthcare provider about which risks apply most to you.