This process is also called a fracture reduction.
Resetting a Bone Fracture: Step-by-Step
Fracture reductions are typically performed in an emergency room.
Less traumatic fractures may be treated at an urgent care clinic or even an orthopedist’s office.
ERproductions Ltd / Getty Images
Here is what to expect if afractureneeds to be reduced.
Step 1: Diagnosis
The diagnosis of a bone fracture usually involves anX-ray.
an ultrasound can help diagnose soft tissue and vascular injuries.
Regional or general anesthesia is most commonly used for open fractures.
Regional anesthesia is injected close to a nerve, a bundle of nerves, or the spinal cord.
General anesthesia is delivered byintravenous infusion(into a vein).
The approach differs for a closed and open reduction.
This is referred to as internal fixation.
If not, external fixation is used.
After healing, the external appliance is removed and the wounds are closed.
Step 6: Immobilization
Immobilizing the bone ensures that the broken ends are held firmly in place.
After reducing an open or closed fracture, asplintorcastmay be required.
These are made of a variety of materials, the most common of which are plaster and fiberglass.
For severe open fractures, external fixation is the main source of immobilization.
Step 7: Post-Reduction X-Rays
Post-reduction X-raysare those taken after the fracture has been reduced.
This ensures that the broken bones are correctly aligned.
If they are not, further treatment may be needed, including surgery or repeat surgery.
Ghayoumi P, Kandemir U, Morshed S.Evidence based update: open versus closed reduction.Injury.
2022 Dec;39(12):888-96. doi:10.1136/emermed-2021-21210
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Open fractures.
Bible JE, Mir HR.External fixation: principles and applications.J Am Acad Orthop Surg.
2015;23(11):683-90. doi:10.5435/JAAOS-D-14-00281
