Bennett/Rolando ORIF

Trauma
Written By

Download this rehabilitation protocol (PDF)

For patients and physiotherapists.

Week 0-1

Aims:

  • Pain control
  • Protect fixation
  • Allow the wounds to heal
  • Maintain overall mobility including fingers

Suggested treatment:

  • See at 1/52 post op
  • Wound check and commence scar massage once wound healed
  • TPS forearm based including thumb Spica– hand based with thumb support
  • AROM of other fingers + wrist/elbow

Week 1-4

Aims:

  • TPS most of the time
  • Scar massage and oedema control
  • Can initiate passive and active thumb IPJ flexion/extension
  • Continue to maintain mobility remaining fingers and wrist/elbow

Week 4-6

Aims:

  • Wean TPS entirely during day; wear at night and risky activities
  • Commence AROM thumb
  • Continue scar massage

Suggested treatment:

  • Progression in AROM
  • Strengthening exercises
  • Wean TPS

Restrictions:

  • No heavy lifting

Week 6 and beyond

Aims:

  • Remove splint and begin PROM and strengthening
  • Gradual return to full activity

Suggested treatment:

  • Commence strengthening exercises
  • No heavy lifting till 3/12 post op

Some General Questions

What to expect after surgery:

  • Most patients will be discharged after surgery (day case)
  • After you wake up, you might notice some numbness to fingers of the operated hand. This may be secondary to local anaesthetic and will wear off over 48-72 hours.
  • Mr Lau will see you prior to discharge to ensure you are safe
  • You will be sent home with medications or a script to help with pain relief

Time in Plaster:

  • You will be in a plaster (half slab) when you wake up
  • An appointment with a dedicated Hand Therapist will be arranged for ~1 week post op – they will begin early mobilisation of the hand and finger to prevent stiffness from developing, as well as customising a moulded splint to protect the fracture

Return to Activity

  • Work: Depends what you do. Desk based work can be done from 2 weeks post operatively, if you can do these tasks single handedly. Otherwise generally 6 weeks before you can use both hands freely whilst seated.
    For manual work, it depends on what kind of lifting/pushing you do, but generally not before 3 months
  • Drive: In Australia, you can’t drive unless you are in full control of both your arms. Therefore, whilst you’re in a splint, you cannot drive. Generally 6 weeks post operatively.
  • Sports/Hobbies:
    • Gentle swimming: after 6 weeks
    • Gardening (light tasks only): 8-12 weeks
    • Bowls: after 3 months
    • Golf, tennis, badminton, squash: after 4-6 months
    • Weights: commence after 3 months

Concerns or questions?

If you have any concerns post operatively, or you would like further information, please contact Mr Lau through the VBJS on 03 5752 5020 or via email at admin@vbjs.com.au

If you need urgent medical help, call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department.

These notes have been prepared by Mr Simon Lau. They are general overviews and information aimed for use by his patients. They reflect Mr Lau’s views, opinions and recommendations. They do not constitute medical advice. The contents are provided for information and education purposes only. Please seek Mr Lau’s specific advice with any questions regarding medical conditions and treatment.

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