Precision Surgical Care for Foot & Ankle Fractures
A fracture that isn't properly treated doesn't just heal slowly. It can heal incorrectly, leading to long-term pain, instability, and joint problems that are far more difficult to correct down the line. At Valley Podiatry and Wound Care Center, Dr. Samuel Enyew performs surgical fracture repair and fixation for patients throughout Mission, Rio Grande City, Weslaco, and the surrounding Rio Grande Valley, using techniques designed to restore proper bone alignment and support the strongest possible recovery.
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Recognizing When Surgery is Needed
Not all fractures require surgery. Many minor or non-displaced fractures heal well with immobilization alone. However, surgical intervention becomes necessary when:
- The fracture is displaced, meaning the bone ends are no longer properly aligned
- Multiple bones are involved, or the joint itself is compromised
- The fracture is unstable and at risk of shifting during healing
- The injury involves both bone and significant ligament damage
- Conservative immobilization has failed to maintain alignment
Patients are assessed individually, with imaging reviewed to determine the most appropriate course of treatment for each specific fracture pattern.
Types of Fractures We Treat
Not every fracture is the same, and the approach to surgical repair depends heavily on which bone is involved, how it broke, and how much displacement has occurred.
Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) of the Foot and Ankle
ORIF is one of the most common surgical approaches for displaced or unstable fractures. The procedure involves repositioning the broken bone fragments into their correct alignment and securing them in place using hardware such as screws, plates, or rods, allowing the bone to heal in the proper position.
- Precise realignment of fractured bone fragments
- Internal fixation with screws, plates, or rods as appropriate
- Suitable for displaced, unstable, or complex fractures
- Post-operative immobilization and weight-bearing protocols specific to the fracture type
Ankle Fracture Repair
Ankle fractures range from single-bone breaks to complex injuries involving multiple structures, including the fibula, tibia, and surrounding ligaments. Surgical repair restores the integrity of the ankle joint and prevents the instability and arthritis that can result from a fracture that heals out of alignment.
- Fixation of one or more fractured ankle bones
- Ligament repair when soft tissue damage accompanies the fracture
- Joint alignment restoration to protect long-term ankle function
- Structured rehabilitation guidance for return to activity
Your Road to Recovery
Recovery from fracture surgery is a gradual process, and what it looks like depends on the location and complexity of the fracture. Dr. Enyew provides clear, specific guidance at every stage, from initial post-surgical immobilization through weight-bearing progression and eventual return to full activity.
What recovery typically involves:
- A period of immobilization in a cast or boot to protect the repair
- Scheduled follow-up imaging to monitor bone healing
- Gradual reintroduction of weight-bearing as healing progresses
- Physical therapy to rebuild strength, flexibility, and balance
- Guidance on activity modification to protect the repair during recovery
Take the Next Step Toward Healing
The longer a displaced or unstable fracture goes without proper surgical treatment, the harder correction becomes. If you've been told you may need surgery for a foot or ankle fracture, or if you're dealing with a fracture that hasn't healed as expected, schedule a consultation at our Mission, Rio Grande City, or Weslaco office today.
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