Name of the Procedure:

Closed treatment of acetabulum (hip socket) fracture(s); without manipulation

Summary

This procedure involves the non-surgical management of a fracture in the acetabulum, which is the socket portion of the hip joint. It is called "closed" because no incisions are made, and "without manipulation" means the bones are not manually adjusted into place.

Purpose

Medical Condition:

• Acetabular fracture (hip socket fracture)

Goals:

• Alleviate pain
• Allow natural bone healing
• Prevent complications associated with the fracture

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions:

• Pain in the hip region
• Difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg
• Swelling or bruising around the hip

Patient Criteria:

• Fracture is stable
• Minimal displacement of bone fragments
• Patient's overall health allows for non-surgical management

Preparation

Pre-procedure Instructions:

• Follow instructions for immobilizing the hip, typically through the use of crutches or a wheelchair
• Medications reviewed and adjusted if necessary

Diagnostic Tests:

• X-rays or CT scans to assess the extent and nature of the fracture

Procedure Description

Steps:

1. Patient is positioned to keep the hip stable.
2. Pain management is provided, typically through oral or injected medications.
3. Immobilization techniques, such as bed rest or limited weight bearing with crutches, are employed.

Tools/Equipment:

• Crutches, wheelchair, or other mobility aids
• Pain medications

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Typically not required as the bones are not manipulated

Duration

• The entire evaluation and initial treatment process usually take a few hours.

Setting

• Performed in an outpatient clinic, emergency room, or hospital setting as part of the initial management.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon or specialist
• Nurses
• Radiology technicians for imaging

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Blood clots
• Pressure sores from immobilization

Rare Risks:

• Bone healing improperly
• Chronic pain or arthritis

Management:

• Regular follow-up to monitor healing
• Physical therapy to strengthen the hip and maintain mobility

Benefits

• Avoids the risks and recovery time associated with surgery
• Pain relief and stabilization without invasive procedures

Recovery

Post-procedure Care:

• Adherence to weight-bearing restrictions
• Pain management with medications

Recovery Time:

• Varies depending on the extent of the fracture, typically several weeks to a few months
• Follow-up appointments to track healing progress

Alternatives

Other Options:

• Surgical treatment if the fracture is unstable
• Physical therapy as an adjunct treatment

Pros and Cons:

• Surgery may provide quicker stabilization but involves higher risk and longer initial recovery
• Non-surgical methods have fewer immediate risks but may require longer immobilization

Patient Experience

During Procedure:

• Minimal discomfort as no manipulation or surgery is involved

After Procedure:

• Some pain managed with medications
• Adapting to mobility aids like crutches or a wheelchair