HD 203 Medical Terminology: Chapter 3 Treatment of Fractures

Closed reduction

also known as manipulation, is the attempted realignment of the bone involved in a fracture or joint dislocation. The affected bone is returned to its normal anatomic alignment by manually applied force and then is usually immobilized to maintain the realigned position during healing.

When a closed reduction is not practical, a surgical procedure known as an open reduction is required to realign the bone parts.

Immobilization

also known as stabilization, is the act of holding, suturing, or fastening the bone in a fixed position with strapping or a cast.

Traction

is a pulling force exerted on a limb in a distal direction in an effort to return the bone or joint to normal alignment.

External fixation

is a fracture treatment procedure in which pins are placed through the soft tissues and bone so that an external appliance can be used to hold the pieces of bone firmly in place during healing. When healing is complete, the appliance is removed

Internal fixation

also known as open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), is a fracture treatment in which a plate or pins are placed directly into the bone to hold the broken pieces in place. This form of fixation is not usually removed after the fracture has healed