Overview

Also known as closed reduction, fracture reduction is a medical procedure to align and position broken bone fragments back into their normal anatomical position. The process involves manual manipulation or surgical intervention to restore the bone's alignment, promoting proper healing and function while minimising complications associated with misaligned fractures.

The fracture reduction procedure may be done by giving the patient a sedative or nerve block to avoid intense pain. After the bones are aligned perfectly, a cast or other similar implants are used to keep a firm hold of the right position of the bones and avoid any further injury.

Types of Fracture Reduction Procedures

Fracture reduction aims to realign broken bone fragments to promote proper healing. There are two primary types of fracture reductions:

- Closed or Non Operative Reduction. In this type of fracture reduction, the fractured bone is manipulated and realigned without surgery. It is performed externally by a skilled healthcare professional using manual techniques or traction devices to restore the bone's natural position.
- Open or Operative Reduction. This procedure involves a surgical intervention to reposition the fractured bone fragments accurately. Surgeons make an incision to access the fracture site and use instruments to align and stabilise the bone using screws, plates, or pins.

Both fracture reduction procedures aim to ensure that the bones heal correctly and restore function to the affected area. The choice between closed and open reduction depends on factors such as the severity and complexity of the fracture and the patient's overall health condition.

Let us also talk about the types of fracture reductions?

Advantages of a Fracture Reduction

Mentioned below are some of the benefits of the non-surgical bone alignment procedure helpful for the patient:

- Lowers Pain- One of the most significant advantages of the non-surgical procedure is reducing pain. A patient suffering from bone pain during the movement of the injured body part feels relaxed. The pain subsides quickly and allows the patient to perform routine functions efficiently without any hassle.
- Easy Mobility- The procedure also helps a patient to perform routine functions such as moving arms, lifting heavy things, or performing other functions easily. The patient is relieved from extreme pain along with comfort.
- Quickens the Healing Procedure- A fracture dislocates the bone leading to extreme pain and immobility. Fracture reduction helps align the bone without any cuts or surgery and aids the healing procedure.

Risks of Fracture Reduction

Every medical or surgical procedure comes with its share of risks and complications. Mentioned below are some of the possible risks that can be experienced during this medical procedure:

- Blood Clot- Blood clot is an issue experienced in any surgical form, but it can also cause worry in this non-surgical procedure. The blood clot, if not treated at the right time, can move forward toward the lungs, heart, or even brain in case of severe circumstances.
- Age- People of older age groups may face some issues during this procedure. The bones of older people are delicate and need extreme care. Thus, this procedure needs to be performed under expert medical supervision. In case of any injury or issue faced in this medical procedure may be more damaging for an aged compared to a patient of a lower age group.

The Procedure of Fracture Reduction Surgery

Fracture reduction surgery is performed to realign and stabilise broken bones. Before the procedure, patients receive anaesthesia to ensure comfort during the surgery. The surgeon makes incisions near the fracture site and gently manipulates the bone fragments into their correct position. Plants, screws, or rods may be used in more complex cases to maintain stability. Afterwards, the incisions are closed, and a cast or brace is applied to support the healing bone. Patients can expect post-operative pain, swelling, and restricted movement. Physical therapy is usually required to regain strength and mobility as the bone heals over several weeks to months.

Fracture Reduction Recovery Guidelines

Mentioned below are some of the care guidelines to be followed after a closed reduction to avoid any issues:

- Medications- A patient undergoing the procedure may experience pain later. If the pain exceeds and starts causing discomfort, one must immediately contact a doctor to avoid complications. Medicines such as NSAIDs, acetaminophen, and other prescribed medicines by the doctor will help to lower the pain. The medication will also allow the patient to stay calm and perform routine activities. The medicines the doctor prescribes should be taken as suggested to avoid any pain and for quicker healing.
- Supportive Walking- Using crutches or a walker while walking is suggested if the bone of the leg or lower body is adjusted by following the nonsurgical treatment. Supportive walking helps distribute equal weight and avoid pressuring the legs to avoid injury or dislocation.
- Enough Rest- Resting enough and avoiding tedious activities aids the healing procedure. The patient heals at double the pace. Following the care guideline suggested by the doctor after the treatment is done is advised.
- Icing- Icing the injured area helps to lower the swelling and pain. Icing the wound regularly for 15 to 20 minutes, as suggested by the doctor, helps to avoid swelling and pain during the movement of the injured part of the body. Using crushed ice in a thin bag and covering it with a cloth helps to ice the wound comfortably to avoid striking pain on the damaged part.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert Ortho doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Fracture reduction is a nonsurgical method to heal the pain caused due to dislocated or nonaligned bones. The procedure helps avoid surgical procedures or using instruments to cut the skin for bone alignment. The method is successful when performed immediately after an injury without procrastinating the treatment.

Reference Links

- https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/fracture-casting/
- https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000521.htm