ORIF
Pronunciation: OH-rif
Also written as: ORIF — Open Reduction and Internal Fixation
Abbreviation for Open Reduction and Internal Fixation; a surgical technique in which fractured bone segments are exposed, repositioned, and fixed with plates and screws.
Full Definition
ORIF stands for Open Reduction and Internal Fixation, a standard surgical procedure used in maxillofacial surgery to treat mandibular and midface fractures, as well as osteotomy sites. 'Open reduction' refers to surgically accessing and repositioning the fractured or cut bone, while 'internal fixation' refers to securing the segments with titanium or bioresorbable plates and screws. Editors must expand the acronym on first use and ensure it is not confused with 'CRIF' (closed reduction and internal fixation) or 'CREF' (closed reduction and external fixation), which are distinct approaches.
Usage
Usage note: Expand on first use. Verify the approach documented is truly 'open'; if the record indicates a closed approach, 'ORIF' is erroneous. Plates and screws are the typical fixation hardware, but this should match the operative notes.
In Context
- "The surgeon performed ORIF of the fractured left mandibular body using a four-hole reconstruction plate." — Operative Report
- "The editor expanded 'ORIF' to 'open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF)' on its first appearance in the case report." — Copy-editing Note