Reduction is a surgical procedure used to restore a fractured or dislocated bone to its proper alignment. In this context, “reduction” does not mean removal or decrease, but rather refers to the act of restoring something to its original state. When a bone fractures, its fragments often become misaligned through displacement or angulation. To ensure proper healing and avoid deformity, these fragments must be repositioned to their normal anatomical alignment. Orthopedic surgery achieves this by reducing the displacement and reconstructing the bone’s original structure.
Book NowReduction can be performed using either a closed or open method.
In an open reduction, the fracture fragments are surgically exposed by cutting through the surrounding tissues.
In contrast, a closed reduction involves realigning the bone fragments through external manipulation, without making any surgical incisions to expose the fracture site.
Because the process of reduction can cause intense, though brief, pain, it is typically performed under a short-acting anesthetic, sedative, or nerve block. Once the bone fragments have been properly aligned, the reduction must be maintained—this is achieved through the use of casts, traction, or fixation devices such as plates, screws, or other implants, which may be either internal or external. Verifying the accuracy of the reduction is crucial, particularly in cases involving joint dislocations, and is done using clinical assessments and X-ray imaging.
An orthopedic cast, commonly referred to as a cast, is a rigid shell—typically made from plaster or fiberglass—used to encase a limb or, in some cases, larger parts of the body. Its primary purpose is to stabilize and immobilize anatomical structures, most often fractured bones, to allow for proper healing. Casts function similarly to splints but offer more comprehensive support. Traditional plaster begins to set about 10 minutes after mixing and fully hardens in approximately 45 minutes, though it may take up to 72 hours to dry completely.
Today, synthetic bandages, such as knitted fiberglass impregnated with polyurethane or thermoplastic materials, are commonly used. These modern alternatives are lighter and dry much faster than plaster. However, plaster retains certain advantages: it can be molded more precisely to the contours of the body, providing a snug, comfortable fit, and its smoother surface is less likely to snag clothing or irritate the skin.
Orthopedic surgery, also known as orthopedics (or orthopaedics), is the surgical specialty focused on conditions of the musculoskeletal system. Orthopedic surgeons treat a wide range of issues—including musculoskeletal trauma, spine disorders, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors, and congenital abnormalities—using both surgical and non-surgical approaches.