What is meant by “fracture reduction” in orthopedic surgery?

Fracture reduction refers to the process of restoring a fractured bone to its normal anatomical position. In orthopedic surgery, this is crucial because proper alignment of the bone fragments is necessary for optimal healing and recovery. Misalignment can lead to complications such as malunion or nonunion, where the bone does not heal correctly.

Achieving the correct alignment often involves manipulating the bone fragments, either through closed reduction, where manual pressure is applied externally, or through open reduction, where surgical intervention is required to directly access and reposition the bones. The aim of fracture reduction is to ensure that the fracture heals properly, allowing the patient to regain full function of the affected limb.

The other options pertain to different aspects of fracture management. Immobilization is important after reduction to keep the bones stable during healing, while pain relief is crucial for patient comfort. Casting, on the other hand, is a method of immobilization that follows reduction to maintain the corrected position of the bone as it heals.