Name of the Procedure:

Hip Orthosis, Abduction Control of Hip Joints, Static, Plastic, Prefabricated, Includes Fitting and Adjustment (L1660)

Summary

This procedure involves fitting and adjusting a prefabricated plastic brace designed to immobilize the hip joints and keep them in an abducted (spread apart) position. The brace is used to treat various hip conditions and helps promote healing and proper alignment.

Purpose

The hip orthosis is used to:

• Treat hip dysplasia, dislocations, subluxations, and other hip abnormalities.
• Stabilize the hip after surgery or injury.
• Improve hip joint alignment and function.

Expected outcomes:

• Improved hip stability and alignment.
• Reduced pain and discomfort.
• Enhanced mobility and function over time.

Indications

• Diagnosed hip dysplasia or dislocation.
• Post-operative hip stabilization.
• Hip injuries requiring immobilization.
• Conditions like Perthes disease or other hip abnormalities.

Patient criteria:

• Patients who have a prescription for the orthosis.
• Individuals who do not have contraindications for brace use, such as severe skin conditions at the brace site.

Preparation

Pre-procedure instructions:

• No specific fasting or medication adjustments are typically required.
• Patients may need to undergo imaging tests (e.g., X-ray, MRI) to assess hip condition.

Procedure Description

1. The healthcare professional measures the patient to select the appropriate size of the prefabricated brace.
2. The plastic hip orthosis is fitted onto the patient, ensuring it correctly supports the hip joints in the abducted position.
3. Adjustments are made to ensure comfort and effectiveness, including strap and padding adjustments.
4. The patient is instructed on how to wear, remove, and care for the brace.

Tools and Equipment:

• Prefabricated plastic hip orthosis.
• Measuring tape and fitting tools.
• Padding and adjustment straps.

Anesthesia:

• Typically, no anesthesia or sedation is needed for this procedure.

Duration

The fitting and adjustment process usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour.

Setting

The procedure is typically performed in an outpatient clinic or an orthopedic specialist's office.

Personnel

• Orthopedic specialist or trained healthcare professional.
• Medical assistant or nurse.

Risks and Complications

• Skin irritation or pressure sores.
• Discomfort or difficulty moving.
• Improper fit may lead to ineffective treatment or further injury.
• Rarely, brace-related complications can occur if not properly managed.

Benefits

• Stabilizes and aligns the hip joint, promoting healing.
• Reduces pain and increases comfort.
• Improves overall mobility and joint function.

Expected benefits may be realized within weeks to months, depending on the individual condition and adherence to usage instructions.

Recovery

Post-procedure care:

• Regular monitoring of skin condition under the brace.
• Follow-up appointments to check fit and effectiveness.
• Gradual return to normal activities as recommended by the healthcare provider.

Expected recovery time:

• Varies based on the underlying condition, typically from a few weeks to several months.
• Patients may have restrictions on weight-bearing activities initially.

Alternatives

• Custom-fabricated hip orthoses.
• Surgical interventions for severe cases.
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation.

Pros and Cons:

• Custom orthoses may offer a better fit but are more expensive.
• Surgery offers definitive correction but comes with higher risks.
• Physical therapy aids in muscle strength but may not provide immediate immobilization.

Patient Experience

During the procedure:

• Patients might feel some pressure or discomfort during the fitting.
• No significant pain as anesthesia is not required.

After the procedure:

• Initial adjustment period to get used to the brace.
• Possible minor discomfort that can be managed with pain relief measures.
• Improved hip stability and eventual pain reduction as treatment progresses.

Pain management and comfort measures may include over-the-counter pain relievers and adjusting padding for better comfort.