Closed reduction

This procedure is most commonly used for acute physeal fractures or incomplete fractures of the physis.

The distal femoral physis has an irregular "W" shape. Reduction is rarely maintained unless implants are placed. This technique is most often used for percutaneous pin placement.

With the patient under general anesthesia, the stifle joint is flexed, and the tarsus is extended, to reduce tension on the gastrocnemius mechanism. With the femur stabilized, the tibia is pulled cranially, which is used to push the distal fragment into reduction. The stifle is then extended to lock the fragments into position.

Radiographs or fluoroscopy should be taken to confirm adequate reduction of the fracture.

Note: This may be sufficient if the physeal fracture was incomplete. Percutaneous pin placement will be needed in almost all cases to maintain reduction.