What happens after external fixator is removed?

What happens after external fixator is removed?

After you have had the external fixators removed, you will experience pain, swelling and stiffness in and around the fracture site. You will have decreased range of movement, strength and muscle control in your lower leg as a result of the surgery and prolonged immobilisation.

What happens when you remove a cast from a broken wrist?

It usually takes four to six weeks for new bone to form to heal your fracture. When the cast is removed most people find that their wrist is stiff, weak and uncomfortable to start with. It may also be prone to swelling and the skin dry or flaky, this is quite normal. It is normal to get some pain after your fracture.

Should I wear a wrist brace after cast removal?

Patients may still be advised to wear a soft wrist splint at night for 1 to 2 weeks after the cast is removed to stabilize the wrist and help patients sleep better.

What is the best way to exercise a broken wrist after cast is removed?

Exercises

1. Rest your forearm on a table with your hand over the edge. Using your wrist only, move your hand down towards the floor. Hold for 10 seconds.
2. Rest the palm of your hand on a table. Without moving your forearm, slide your hand one way until you feel a stretch.
3. Bend your elbow and tuck it into your side.

How long does external fixation stay on?

How long do I have to wear the external fixator? Typical external fixator patients wear the device from four to twelve months. The severity of the problem you need reconstructed, your health, weight and other factors play a role in the length of time you will need to wear the external fixator.

When do doctors use external fixation?

An external fixation device may be used to keep fractured bones stabilized and in alignment. The device can be adjusted externally to ensure the bones remain in an optimal position during the healing process. This device is commonly used in children and when the skin over the fracture has been damaged.

When can external fixation be removed?

In most older children and all adolescents, it is best to leave the external fixator on for the full 12 weeks to minimize the risk of refracture after frame removal. The fixator should not be removed until there is bridging callus across at least 3 cortices on AP and lateral radiographs.