If you or someone close to you has ever broken an ankle, you’ve probably heard doctors mention things like ankle plates and screws during treatment. It can sound a bit intimidating at first—like something out of a hardware store, not a hospital. But don’t worry. These tools are a normal part of orthopedic surgery and play a huge role in helping broken bones heal properly. Let’s have a look at it.
Why Are Plates and Screws Used in Ankles?
The ankle is a small but complex joint made up of bones, ligaments, and cartilage. When a bone in the ankle fractures, especially in a serious way (like when it’s displaced or in multiple pieces), the bone can’t always heal correctly on its own. That’s where ankle plates and screws come into the picture.
These devices are used to hold broken bones in place, making sure they stay properly aligned as they heal. Think of it like fixing a cracked mug, if you don’t hold the pieces in place while the glue dries, the mug won’t hold water anymore. Plates and screws do that same job for bones.
What Are They Made Of?
Ankle plates and screws are typically made of medical-grade metal, most commonly titanium or stainless steel. These materials are strong, lightweight, and compatible with the human body. In most cases, they are designed to stay in your body permanently. However, in some situations, especially if they cause discomfort later on, they can be removed through a second surgery.
How Are They Inserted?
During a surgical procedure called open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), a surgeon will realign the broken bones and then use plates and screws to secure them. The “open” part means the surgeon makes an incision to access the broken bones directly. Once everything is aligned, the metal hardware is inserted.
Plates are flat pieces of metal that lie along the outside of the bone, like a splint. Screws are drilled through the plate and into the bone to hold everything tightly together. Some screws may also be used on their own, especially in areas that don’t need a full plate.
What’s Recovery Like?
After surgery, the recovery process depends on the severity of the fracture and how well your body heals. Typically, patients need a few weeks in a cast or boot to keep the ankle protected. Physical therapy often follows to restore strength, mobility, and balance.
It’s important to follow your doctor’s advice closely. Putting weight on the ankle too soon or skipping therapy can slow down healing or even lead to complications.
Are There Any Risks?
Like any surgery, ORIF with ankle plates and screws carries some risks. Infection, blood clots, or nerve damage can happen, but they’re not common. Some people also experience discomfort from the metal hardware, especially in cold weather. If it becomes bothersome, your doctor may recommend removing the hardware once the bone has fully healed.
Living with Ankle Plates and Screws
The good news is that most people go on to live completely normal lives after surgery. Whether you’re a casual walker or a weekend athlete, having ankle hardware usually doesn’t limit you. In fact, the goal of using these devices is to help you return to your regular activities safely and sooner.
Final Thoughts
Ankle plates and screws might sound like a big deal, but they’re simply tools that surgeons use to help your body heal properly. If you’re facing surgery or recovering from one, understanding what’s happening inside your ankle can make the whole process feel a little less overwhelming.
As always, if you have specific concerns or questions about your recovery, your orthopedic surgeon is the best person to talk to. But now, at least, you’ve got a solid foundation of what these little pieces of metal, called orthopaedic implants, actually do and why they’re so important.
