Work-Related Broken Bones – St. Louis Worker Compensation Lawyer

Broken bone injuries often require extensive treatment and in some cases the injured worker may need to undergo surgery.

Workers in certain industries, including manufacturing and construction, are at a greater risk of suffering a broken bone injury. Broken bones often require extensive treatment and in some cases the injured worker may need to undergo surgery. One of the surgical procedures that is used for the treatment of broken bones is an open reduction with internal fixation.

Open Reduction with Internal Fixation

This surgical procedure is performed on broken bones that do not heal with casting or splinting. The procedure is not recommended in cases where the bone is broken into several pieces, is out of alignment, is protruding out of the skin, or has not healed properly from a previous surgery.

The surgery involves making an incision to expose the affected bone. The surgeon then puts the bone back into its original position and fixes the bone in place with the help of an internal fixation device such as rods, screws, plates, or pins. The incision is then closed.

Complications Associated with the Procedure

Open reduction with internal fixation is very commonly used and is a safe procedure. However, complications can develop. Possible complications include:

• blood clotting
• infection
• pain
• nerve damage
• muscle spasms
• incomplete healing
• anesthesia-related complications

After the surgery, the patient is required to stay in the hospital for up to a week, depending on various factors. People who are older or have additional medical conditions may require a longer hospital stay. After release from the hospital, complete recovery can take anywhere from a few months to a year.

St. Louis Worker Compensation Lawyer

A worker who suffers a broken bone injury at the workplace may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Work comp benefits may cover the cost of the surgery and other medical expenses. The injured worker may also receive disability benefits to cover a part of lost wages as a result of the injury.

In some cases, the injury may be a result of third-party negligence. For example, a broken bone injury may result from an accident involving malfunctioning machinery. In such cases, the worker may be able to file a third-party claim. Seek legal help from a St. Louis worker compensation lawyer. Call The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann at (314) 361-4300 for a free consultation.

Work Related Injuries