Dislocation Discussion
Dislocation is a serious injury which involves disruption of over half of
the capsuloligamentous support of the joint. Even with optimum management,
this type of injury may result in joint instability, loss of motion,
malalignment, weakness and degenerative arthritis. Treatment options
include closed or open reduction, and ligament repair or reconstruction. In
general, instability is more reliably corrected with surgery. Surgery may
involve a temporary transarticular pin to maintain joint alignment, and a
permanent bone anchor. Postoperative therapy with full patient cooperation
is critical to achieve the best final outcome. Specific risks include
stiffness, numbness, possible persistent laxity, instability and future
degenerative changes. There is usually soreness and swelling of this area
for as long as a year following injury.
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