Open treatment of hip dislocation, traumatic, with acetabular wall and femoral head fracture, with or without internal or external fixation
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Open Treatment of Hip Dislocation, Traumatic, with Acetabular Wall and Femoral Head Fracture
Common Name: Open Hip Surgery for Dislocation and Fracture Repair
Summary
This surgical procedure involves treating a traumatic hip dislocation accompanied by fractures of the acetabular wall and the femoral head. The procedure may include the use of internal or external fixation devices to stabilize the bones.
Purpose
The goal of this procedure is to realign the hip joint, repair broken bones, and restore function. It is aimed at reducing pain, improving mobility, and preventing long-term complications such as arthritis or joint instability.
Indications
- Traumatic hip dislocation with associated fractures
- Severe hip pain and inability to move the leg
- Cases where closed reduction (non-surgical realignment) is not possible or effective
- Risk of blood vessel or nerve damage due to the dislocation
Preparation
- Patients may need to fast for several hours before surgery.
- Discontinuation of certain medications, especially blood thinners, as advised by the doctor.
- Preoperative imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs.
- Pre-surgical assessment to evaluate overall health and anesthesia risk.
Procedure Description
- Anesthesia: Administered general or regional anesthesia would be used to ensure the patient is pain-free.
- Incision: A surgical incision is made over the hip to access the dislocated joint and fractured bones.
- Realignment and Repair: The surgeon will realign the hip joint and carefully repair fractures using screws, plates, or other fixation devices as necessary.
- Fixation: Internal (inside the body) or external (outside the body) fixation devices are applied to hold the bones in place during healing.
- Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and sterile dressings are applied.
Duration
The procedure typically takes between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the injury.
Setting
The surgery is performed in a hospital's operating room.
Personnel
- Orthopedic Surgeon
- Assistant Surgeon
- Anesthesiologist
- Surgical Nurses
- Radiologic Technologist (if imaging is required during the operation)
Risks and Complications
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Nerve damage
- Blood vessel injury
- Non-union or malunion of the fracture
- Need for additional surgeries
- Risks associated with anesthesia
Benefits
- Relief from severe pain
- Improved joint stability and alignment
- Restoration of mobility and function
- Prevention of further damage and complications
Recovery
- Initial hospital stay of 3 to 7 days.
- Pain management with medications.
- Physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.
- Temporary restrictions on weight-bearing activities.
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and progress.
- Full recovery may take several months.
Alternatives
- Closed reduction (non-surgical) if viable, though usually less effective for complex fractures.
- Conservative management with traction and bracing (often less effective).
- Hip replacement surgery, typically considered for older patients or severe joint damage.
Patient Experience
- Patients may feel some discomfort and pain after the procedure, which will be managed with medications.
- Initial immobilization followed by gradual rehabilitation exercises.
- Physical therapy will aid in a quicker and more effective recovery.
- Close follow-up with the surgical team to ensure proper healing.