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Closed reduction is a non-invasive method of treating fractures and dislocations by manipulating the bones from outside the body. X-rays are taken to determine the nature and location of the fracture, and the patient is given pain-relieving drugs. Once the bones are aligned correctly, they are immobilized. Closed reduction is less invasive and has fewer risks, but surgery may be necessary for complex fractures.
Closed reduction is a method used to treat fractures in which the doctor manipulates the fractured bones from outside the body to position them correctly without making an incision to access the fracture site. This method of treating fractures is preferred in many settings and in some cases will be tried first even if a doctor is concerned that surgical treatment may be necessary. Closed reductions can be used to treat not only fractures, but dislocations as well.
During this procedure, doctors take X-rays to view the bone and determine the nature and location of the fracture. The patient is given pain-relieving drugs to make him more comfortable, and then the doctor, usually an orthopedic surgeon, carefully manipulates the bones to put them back together. Once the surgeon is satisfied that the bones are aligned correctly, they are immobilized so they can begin the process of stitching them back together.
Once a closed reduction is completed, a second x-ray is taken to confirm that the bones are in the correct position. This is important because if they are not placed properly they will heal improperly. Bones can still heal improperly or shift during healing, which usually leads to a situation where a patient needs surgery. Poorly healing fractures can cause complications such as shortened limbs and joint weakness. Patients usually experience a significant reduction in pain once a fracture has been reduced.
There are a number of benefits to a closed reduction. This type of treatment is less invasive, which can speed up healing times. It is less likely to put the patient at risk of infection, because the skin is not broken and will not leave scars, which can be a concern for some patients. However, this procedure is not always appropriate. Sometimes a fracture needs to be surgically repaired because it is complex.
A surgeon can usually determine from X-rays whether or not surgery is needed. If the surgeon is unsure, he may first attempt closed reduction to see if the situation can be resolved this way. Before doing this, the surgeon must weigh the risks and benefits of closed reduction. One risk may be the risk of increased patient injury sustained during a closed fracture reduction. If this risk is high, the surgeon may suggest proceeding directly to surgery.
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