Name of the Procedure:

Closed Treatment of Sternoclavicular Dislocation without Manipulation

Summary

This non-invasive procedure involves treating a dislocated sternoclavicular (SC) joint, located where the collarbone meets the sternum, without physically manipulating or adjusting the joint.

Purpose

The procedure aims to manage the dislocation of the SC joint, easing pain and facilitating the natural healing process. It is typically used when the joint is expected to self-correct over time or when manipulation is unnecessary.

Indications

• Pain or discomfort in the area where the collarbone meets the sternum
• Visible dislocation or displacement of the collarbone
• Swelling or tenderness in the sternoclavicular region
• Patients who do not require or are not candidates for more invasive treatments

Preparation

• Follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions
• No special fasting or dietary restrictions typically required
• Diagnostic imaging (e.g., X-rays, CT scans) may be needed to confirm the dislocation and assess its severity

Procedure Description

1. Initial assessment by a healthcare provider to confirm the SC joint dislocation.
2. The patient wears a supportive device, like a sling or figure-of-eight bandage, to stabilize the SC joint.
3. Regular follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process.
4. Instructions on pain management, including over-the-counter pain relievers and ice application.

Duration

The initial procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, excluding the time for diagnostic imaging.

Setting

The procedure is commonly performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or physician’s office.

Personnel

• Primary healthcare provider (usually an orthopedic specialist)
• Nurses or medical assistants

Risks and Complications

• Discomfort from the stabilizing device
• Potential for incomplete healing or re-dislocation
• Rare risks include vascular or nerve damage, especially if the dislocation remains unstable

Benefits

• Reduces pain and discomfort associated with the dislocation
• Supports natural healing of the SC joint
• Non-invasive with minimal recovery time

Recovery

• Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks.
• Adhere to instructions for using supportive devices.
• Follow-up appointments for progress assessment.
• Physical therapy may be recommended for better recovery.
• Recovery generally spans from several weeks to a few months, depending on the individual case.

Alternatives

• Closed treatment with manipulation (attempt to realign the joint manually)
• Open surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the joint
• Pros and cons: Non-invasive treatments are less risky and have shorter recovery times, but surgical options might provide a more immediate correction for severe cases.

Patient Experience

Patients can expect minor discomfort from wearing the supportive device and some pain in the initial days, which can be managed with pain relievers and ice packs. Regular follow-up visits are important to monitor healing, and physical therapy might be recommended to regain full function and strength.