Fracture Reduction

A procedure to position bone fragments in correct alignment. There are two types:
  • Closed reduction - the bone is set without making an incision in the skin
  • Open reduction - involves cutting through the skin to realign the bones

Parts of the Body Involved

Bones

Reasons for Procedure

A reduction is done to return a broken bone to its proper alignment. This is done for the following reasons:
  • So that the bone can heal properly
  • To decrease pain and prevent deformity
  • To allow the patient to regain use of the bone and limb

Risk Factors for Complications during the Procedure

  • Advanced age
  • Pre-existing medical condition

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

Your physician will likely do the following:
  • Physical exam
  • X-rays of the broken bone
  • Provide a splint for the broken bone to decrease the risk of additional injury
In the days prior to the procedure:
  • Arrange for a ride to and from the procedure
  • Arrange for help at home after the procedure
  • The night before, eat a light mel and do not eat or drink anything after midnight
During Procedure - IV fluids, anesthesia, possibly a sedative

Anesthesia

Outcome

Small bones may heal in 3 to 6 weeks, but long bones can take more time. A specific activity and rehabilitation program may be recommended to speed your recovery and protect future function. It is not unusual for patients, wearing a cast or splint, to go back to work or resume daily activities within a few days.

Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following Occurs

  • Severe or unusual pain that is not relieved by pain medication
  • Signs of infection, including fever and chills
  • Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge from the incision site
  • Shortness of breath
  • Numbness and/or tingling in the injured extremity or other parts of the injured extremity
  • Loss of movement in the fingers or toes of the injured arm or leg
  • The cast feels too tight
  • Burning or stinging sensations under the cast
  • Redness of the skin around the cast
  • Persistent itching under the cast
  • Cracks or soft spots develop in the cast
  • Chalky white, blue, or black discoloration of fingers, toes, arm, or leg