1. Community
  2. Bones, joints and muscles
  3. Ankle Problems

Need revision surgery after ORIF

Posted , 3 users are following.

j63011
j63011

I had ORIF with metalwork on the tibia and fibula. It has been 12 weeks and I am told there is some non-union on the medial malleolus (which has screws in) - I have seen the x-ray and there is a bit of a gap where the bone has not come together despite the screws.

I asked about waiting to see if more healing might improve this, but I was told that I should just get the revision surgery done, with mention of potential difficulties and even screws breaking if I leave it. They didn't try to get me in for revision surgery immediatly and left it that I would need to book a date.

I am disappointed as I thought I had been making progress post-surgery. I also don't know how urgently I need to push for surgery - the prospect of screws "breaking" freaked me out and made me imagine them sticking out the skin if that happened!

Any thoughts?

0 likes, 2 replies

2 Replies

  • ali86097
    ali86097 j63011

    Edited

    I know how frustrating it is to need another surgery when you think you're healing. I needed revision surgery almost immediately after my ORIF – it was picked up on the post-surgery x-rays on their weekly round table. The surgeon called me a week after my surgery, I had a CT the next day and the correction a week later.

    If they're telling you that you need it, I'd schedule it as soon as possible. Right now you're in limbo, you're not going to heal until they put it right and the longer you wait, the more muscle/flexibility you lose. The sooner you act, the sooner you'll recover.

    I'm at six weeks post surgery now, I had my cast off 4 weeks ago and I've been on partial weight bearing ever since. I have my check up on Wednesday, but I feel like I'm almost ready to start full weight bearing. I've had little to no pain since the second surgery and have gained back a lot of flexibility now – it feels night and day different to the first surgery.

    I know it's frustrating, and the idea of another surgery is awful, but it sounds like it's necessary.

  • pennie12643
    pennie12643 j63011

    Posted

    I have no idea but I’m so sorry. I’m five weeks post ORIF. I think I would follow the recommendations of the surgeon though. The idea of a screw breaking would push me over the edge. i’m pretty close to the edge already. Ha ha

Back to top

Report or request deletion

Thanks for your help!

We want the community to be a useful resource for our users but it is important to remember that the community are not moderated or reviewed by doctors and so you should not rely on opinions or advice given by other users in respect of any healthcare matters. Always speak to your doctor before acting and in cases of emergency seek appropriate medical assistance immediately. Use of the community is subject to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and steps will be taken to remove posts identified as being in breach of those terms.