Name of the Procedure:

Manipulation of the hip joint under general anesthesia
Common names: Hip joint manipulation, Hip joint reduction

Summary

Manipulation of the hip joint under general anesthesia is a procedure used to restore proper alignment and function to a hip joint that is either dislocated or significantly restricted in movement. This procedure is performed while the patient is fully unconscious to allow for effective manipulation without discomfort.

Purpose

• Addresses: Hip dislocations, movement restrictions due to scar tissue or adhesions
• Goals: To restore normal hip alignment and range of motion, alleviate pain, and improve mobility.

Indications

• Patients with hip dislocation
• Individuals with limited hip joint mobility due to scar tissue, adhesions, or post-surgical stiffness
• Recurrent hip subluxations

Preparation

• Pre-procedure instructions:
  • Fast for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure
  • Adjust or withhold certain medications as instructed by your healthcare provider
• Diagnostic tests/assessments:
  • Physical examination
  • Imaging studies like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans

Procedure Description

1. The patient is placed under general anesthesia to ensure unconsciousness and pain-free experience.
2. The patient is positioned on the surgical table to allow optimal access to the hip joint.
3. The healthcare provider uses specific techniques to carefully manipulate the hip joint back into place or to release adhesions causing restricted movement.
4. Imaging may be used during the procedure to confirm proper alignment and successful manipulation.

Tools/Equipment: Hands-on manipulation, imaging machines (if necessary) Anesthesia: General anesthesia

Duration

Typically takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in a hospital operating room or a surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses
• Radiology technician (if imaging is needed)

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Bruising, swelling
• Rare risks: Infection, fractures, nerve damage, blood clots

Management of complications:

• Medications for pain and infection
• Follow-up imaging to ensure proper hip alignment

Benefits

• Reduction of pain and discomfort
• Improved hip mobility and function
• Enhanced ability to perform daily activities

Realization time: Benefits may be realized immediately, though full recovery of function can take several weeks.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care:
  • Pain management (medication, ice packs)
  • Physical therapy to restore strength and mobility
• Expected recovery time: A few days to weeks, depending on individual circumstances
• Restrictions: Limited weight-bearing activity initially, gradually increasing mobility as healing occurs
• Follow-up: Scheduled appointments to monitor recovery and progress

Alternatives

• Other treatment options:
  • Physical therapy without manipulation
  • Surgical intervention for severe cases
  • Medications (pain relievers, anti-inflammatories)
• Pros and cons:
  • Physical therapy: Less invasive but may be less effective for severe restrictions
  • Surgery: More invasive with longer recovery but definitive treatment for severe cases

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: The patient will be under general anesthesia and thus will not feel any discomfort or be aware of the procedure.
• After the procedure:
  • Some pain and swelling can be anticipated, managed by medications and ice packs.
  • Gradual improvement in hip movement and reduction in pain as recovery progresses.
  • Pain management and comfort measures, such as prescribed pain relief medications and physical therapy exercises.