Just months after orthopedic surgery at Englewood Hospital to reconstruct his severely injured ankle, adventure bicycle racer Dean Orfas returned to competing – and taking first place.

While participating in a triathlon in August of 2006, Orfas sustained severe injuries which left his ankle badly fractured and displaced.

“Basically, my foot was hanging off my leg,” remembers Orfas. After a four-hour, four-mile journey out of the woods that included constructing splints and crutches out of branches, he arrived at the Emergency Department. “My race partner suggested Englewood Hospital,” he explained. “That was some of the best advice I’ve ever received. From the moment I entered the ER, the people and the care were terrific.”

Due to the complex nature of the injury, the only option was surgical reconstruction of the fractures bones. Dr. Andrew A. Brief, an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in ankle and foot surgery was on call the night of the accident. After the extreme swelling subsided, Dr. Brief completed the reconstruction, which included the insertion of stainless steel hardware into the joint.

“An ankle fracture can require up to a year or more to heal,” says Dr. Brief. “Some patients never recover to pre-episode level.” Six weeks after orthopedic surgery to reconstruct his ankle, Orfas participated in a “spinathon” for charity, and seven months later, his team took first place in a race that included running, bicycling and kayaking.

Dr. Brief credits exceptional treatment – from emergency care and surgery to extensive physical therapy and everything in between – as part of the reason that Orfas was able to recover so successfully. The other part rests with the strong-willed determination of his patient to a return to a full and active life.   

For a physician referral or for more information about the innovative orthopedic surgery options offered at
Englewood Hospital and Medical Center for foot and
ankle problems, call 1-877-862-BONE.