Managing Intra-Articular Fractures: Surgery, Healing, and Recovery

Fractures that occur inside a joint are very different from simple bone breaks. When a fracture involves the joint surface, stability becomes a critical concern, and conservative treatment is usually not enough. In such cases, surgical fixation is often the best and safest option to restore proper joint function.

Why Plate Fixation Is Necessary

When a fracture is located within the joint, movement of the joint can displace the broken bone fragments. To prevent this and ensure accurate alignment, surgeons commonly use a high-quality variable-angle plate. This plate allows for strong fixation while also enabling earlier movement, which is essential for joint recovery.

In some cases, the joint may still be slightly unstable even after plating. To address this, a temporary stabilizing wire is used. This wire helps maintain joint stability during the initial healing phase and is usually removed after 10–15 days, once the joint becomes more secure.

Importance of Early Movement

After the wire is removed, joint movement is gradually started. The goal is not just healing of the bone, but also restoration of strength and mobility. The more consistently a patient performs the recommended exercises, the better the recovery outcomes.

Three Key Stages of Recovery After Surgery

Recovery after joint fracture surgery depends on three important processes:

• Wound healing – Surgical stitches typically take 2 to 3 weeks to heal.
• Bone healing – New bone formation takes time and progresses gradually.
• Rehabilitation and strengthening – Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in restoring movement and strength.

Role of Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy should begin as advised by the treating doctor. Regular exercises help improve joint movement and muscle strength. Most patients need 1 to 2 months of consistent physiotherapy to regain functional movement.
Heavy work or strenuous activity should be avoided for at least 4 to 6 weeks, depending on healing progress. Activities can then be resumed gradually.

Follow-Up and Long-Term Outlook

Once the bone has completely healed, most patients do not face long-term restrictions. However, regular follow-ups are important until complete bone union is confirmed. These follow-ups are usually scheduled monthly in the early phase to monitor healing and ensure proper recovery.

With proper surgery, rehabilitation, and follow-up care, patients can expect a good functional outcome and return to normal daily activities.