Forearm Fracture Treatment (ORIF) in Houston, TX

What Are Forearm Fractures?

The forearm has two long bones, the radius and the ulna, which run from the elbow to the wrist. A fracture can affect one or both bones and often happens after a fall on an outstretched arm or a direct hit. It can also occur during a car accident or contact sports.

These injuries usually cause pain, swelling, a visible deformity, and difficulty moving the elbow, wrist, or rotating the forearm.

Some forearm fractures can be treated without surgery, but ORIF may be recommended when alignment or stability cannot be restored with casting alone. Our upper extremity specialist in Houston diagnoses forearm fractures through a physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays, to identify the fracture’s location and pattern.

For more complex injuries, a CT scan may be recommended to closely evaluate bone fragments and guide precise surgical planning.

What Is Involved in Open Reduction and Internal Fixation Surgery for Forearm Fractures?

If a forearm fracture is out of place, unstable, or unlikely to heal properly with a cast, Dr. Dimachkieh may suggest ORIF forearm surgery.

During this procedure, he makes a precise incision to view the fracture. He then uses hardware such as plates and screws to hold the bone fragments in their proper position while they heal.

As an experienced hand surgeon in Houston, he performs ORIF forearm surgery with attention to restoring alignment, supporting bone healing, and helping patients regain movement and strength. His experience with advanced fracture and reconstructive techniques leads to better results and a smoother recovery.

How Is ORIF Surgery Performed at Our Houston Clinic?

Patients undergoing open reduction and internal fixation surgery at our Houston clinic will receive anesthesia and a sterile surgical approach to access the fracture.

Once bone alignment is restored, our surgeon secures the fragments with screws and plates designed for long-term stability, carefully protecting surrounding nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissues to achieve the best possible functional outcome.

After the procedure, the arm is normally supported in a splint or sling, and a personalized recovery plan is provided.

Rehabilitation After ORIF Forearm Surgery

After forearm fracture surgery, mild to moderate pain and swelling are normal. Our surgeon will provide detailed pain-management instructions and you’ll usually be splinted initially for comfort/soft-tissue protection. Range-of-motion often begins early (timing varies by fracture stability and soft tissues). This is to protect the repair and promote proper healing.

Physical therapy will help you get back strength, flexibility, and movement in your wrist, elbow, and forearm. How quickly you recover depends on how serious your injury was and your general health.