Internal fixation is the surgical insertion of hardware to stabilize and hold the bone in place as it heals.
You might have a cast placed after your surgery.Different types of castsmay be used during your healing process.
Immobilization leads to muscle atrophy and weakening of ligaments and tendons.
Dana Neely / Getty Images
Physical therapy is key to post-recovery success.
Frangie R.Ankle Fracture: Open Reduction and Internal Fixation.Operative Dictations in Orthopedic Surgery.
2015;3(3):184192
American College of Surgeons.
“ACS TQIP: Best Practices in the Management of Orthopedic Trauma.”
Chicago, Illinois; 2014.