Open reduction: surgical intervention using plates, screws, or other internal fixation devices
-advantages: precise bone reduction, early mobilization of joints, immediate stability, earlier return to function
-disadvantages: inc probability of infection, increased hospital stays, metal devices may require subsequent removal
-improper placement or tightening may cause bone reabsorption because of local stress concentration or decreased vascular perfusion
-plates that are too rigid may cause bone atrophy secondary to preventing the bone from perceiving intermittent compressive forces
-secondary inflammatory response following hardware removal leads to bone weakening. Need to protect until bone regains strength
-with plates left in place, problems with stress along plate-bone interface can occur