Closed Reduction Internal Fixation of Upper Extremity Fracture in Children
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
What do I need to know about a closed reduction internal fixation (CRIF)?
CRIF is a procedure to fix your child's broken bone. Your child's healthcare provider will move your child's bones back into the correct place. He or she may be able to do this without an incision being made over the break. Pins and wires are used to hold the pieces of bone in place. Screws and metal plates may also be used.
How do I prepare my child for a CRIF?
Your child's healthcare provider will tell you how to prepare your child for surgery. He or she may tell you to not let your child eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the surgery. Your child's healthcare provider will tell you what medicines your child should take or not take.
What will happen during a CRIF?
- Your child may be given general anesthesia to keep him or her asleep during the surgery. The anesthesia will also keep your child pain free during the surgery. Your child may be given an antibiotic through the IV to decrease the risk for infection.
- Your child's healthcare provider will use an x-ray machine to help place the bones into the correct position. Once the bones are positioned correctly, pins and wires may be used to hold the bones in place. Instead, your child's healthcare provider may make an incision and place flexible screws. Or, place metal plates to hold the bones in place. The incision will be closed with stitches. Your child's healthcare provider will apply a splint or cast over your child's arm or hand. This will prevent movement and help the bones heal.
What will happen after a CRIF?
Your child will be monitored until he or she is fully awake. When the bone is healed, your child's healthcare provider may remove the pins, wires, and screws. Once the devices are removed, your child may need to participate in therapy. Physical and occupational therapies may help your child gain strength and keep complete range of motion in the operated arm.
What are the risks of a CRIF?
Your child may bleed more than expected or get an infection. Your child's healthcare provider may not be able to position the fracture correctly using a closed procedure. Your child's broken bone may not heal correctly. Your child may continue to have pain. The internal fixation devices may break or change shape. Your child may need another surgery to remove the internal fixation device. Nerves, blood vessels, ligaments, or muscles may be damaged during surgery.
Care Agreement
You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
