Overview
Pediatric Fracture Reduction is a procedure used to realign broken bones in children, restoring normal anatomy and function.
Fracture reduction is crucial for proper bone healing, preventing deformity, and restoring function in pediatric patients.
Learn more in our comprehensive RxDx Pediatrics Course
Indications
Bones out of alignment
Bones at wrong angle
Bones twisted
Bone through skin
Salter-Harris fractures
Contraindications
Absolute Contraindications
Relative Contraindications
📋 Equipment Checklist
Check off items as you gather them:
Pre-procedure Preparation
Preparation includes patient assessment, imaging review, anesthesia planning, and equipment setup.Step-by-Step Procedure
Step 1: Patient Assessment
Assess fracture, neurovascular status.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Inadequate assessment
- Missed complications
💡 Pro Tip:
Check pulses and sensation.
Step 2: Imaging Review
Review X-rays and plan reduction.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- No imaging
- Poor planning
💡 Pro Tip:
Understand fracture pattern.
Step 3: Anesthesia
Provide adequate pain control.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Inadequate anesthesia
- Patient distress
💡 Pro Tip:
Use appropriate anesthesia.
Step 4: Reduction Technique
Perform reduction with proper technique.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Wrong technique
- Incomplete reduction
💡 Pro Tip:
Use gentle, controlled force.
Step 5: Immobilization
Apply appropriate immobilization.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Poor immobilization
- Displacement
💡 Pro Tip:
Use proper splinting.
Step 6: Post-reduction Imaging
Confirm reduction with imaging.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- No confirmation
- Poor alignment
💡 Pro Tip:
Verify reduction success.
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Post-procedure Care
Post-procedure care involves immobilization, monitoring, and rehabilitation planning.Complications & Management
| Complication | Incidence | Signs | Management | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neurovascular injury | 1-2% | Numbness, pallor | Immediate intervention | Gentle technique |
| Compartment syndrome | 0.5-1% | Pain, swelling | Fasciotomy | Monitor closely |
| Incomplete reduction | 5-10% | Poor alignment | Repeat reduction | Proper technique |
| Growth plate injury | 1-3% | Growth disturbance | Long-term follow-up | Gentle technique |
Clinical Pearls
Use gentle, controlled force.
Check neurovascular status before and after.
Confirm reduction with imaging.
Monitor for complications.
Document reduction technique.
Use appropriate immobilization.
Consider growth plate involvement.