Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
ORIF
Pronunciation: OH-rif
Also written as: ORIF — Open Reduction and Internal Fixation
Open reduction and internal fixation; surgical treatment involving opening the fracture site and securing bones with hardware.
Full Definition
A surgical procedure combining two techniques: open reduction (surgically exposing the fracture site to realign bone fragments) and internal fixation (securing the bones with metal hardware such as screws, plates, or rods). ORIF is typically indicated for complex fractures that cannot be adequately reduced through closed methods or require stable internal fixation for optimal healing and functional recovery.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize as acronym. Distinguish from CRIF (closed reduction and internal fixation).
In Context
- "The patient is scheduled for ORIF of the displaced ankle fracture tomorrow." — Pre-operative note
- "ORIF was performed using a lateral locking plate and multiple lag screws." — Operative report
Also known as
open reduction internal fixation
Contrasted with
CRIF
closed reduction
Don't confuse with
CRIF
external fixation