Sterilåpent

Sterilåpent is a Norwegian term that translates to "sterile open" in English. It refers to a surgical technique used in orthopedic surgery, particularly in the treatment of fractures and dislocations. The term is often used interchangeably with "open reduction and internal fixation" (ORIF) in English-speaking countries.

In a sterilåpent procedure, the surgeon makes an incision over the affected area to expose the fractured or dislocated bone. The bone is then realigned (reduced) and stabilized using internal fixation devices such as screws, plates, or rods. These devices help to hold the bone in place while it heals, reducing the risk of further injury and promoting proper healing.

The sterilåpent technique is often preferred over closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF) because it allows the surgeon to directly visualize and manipulate the bone, ensuring a more accurate reduction. This can be particularly important in complex fractures or dislocations where the bone is significantly displaced or deformed.

However, sterilåpent procedures carry a higher risk of infection compared to CRIF due to the open nature of the surgery. To minimize this risk, surgeons typically use sterile techniques and may use antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.

Sterilåpent is commonly used in the treatment of fractures and dislocations of the hip, knee, ankle, and other large joints. It is also used in the treatment of certain types of bone tumors and other conditions that require internal fixation. The choice between sterilåpent and CRIF depends on various factors, including the type and severity of the injury, the patient's overall health, and the surgeon's clinical judgment.