Fracture Reduction Closed

General Information

When a bone is broken, it may be necessary to re-align the bones for proper healing. A closed fracture reduction is done without making an incision in the skin, and allows the doctor to simply set the bones in place before covering with a cast or splint. A closed fracture reduction is typically done when a bone has a single breakage point and has not punctured the skin.

Reasons for Closed Fracture Reduction

A broken bone can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

• A fall
• Car accident
• Sports-related injury
• Direct blow to the body

Diagnosis

To determine if the bone is broken in a single place, an x-ray of the site will be taken. A physical exam will also be done to examine the injured extremity and check for blood flow, sensitivity or bruising.

Surgery

In order to set a broken bone, your doctor will complete the procedure in the following manner:

• You will be placed under a general anesthesia. Anesthesia will allow your muscles to relax and prevent you from feeling pain during the procedure
• The doctor will adjust the broken bone and push it back into proper alignment
• The extremity will be casted to keep the bone in place as it heals

What to Expect

Depending on your pain levels or reaction to the anesthesia, you may be sent home after the procedure is completed or kept for observation. While there are rarely complications, they do exist.

Possible risks from the procedure include:

• Risks associated with anesthesia
• Possible blood clotting which may travel to vital organs
• Loss of sensation around the break site, as nerves may be damaged
• Bones not growing in proper alignment

After the procedure, call your doctor if you experience any of the following:

• The cast is secured too tight for comfort
• You have lost feeling in toes or fingers
• Your pain is unmanageable, even with medication
• A fever develops