damage control orthopedics
Also written as: DCO — Damage Control Orthopedics
Staged surgical approach prioritizing life-saving interventions over definitive fracture repair in critically injured patients.
Full Definition
Damage control orthopedics (DCO) is a surgical philosophy and staged treatment approach for severely injured patients where life-threatening conditions take priority over definitive orthopedic reconstruction. The initial phase focuses on rapid stabilization of fractures using temporary measures such as external fixation, allowing time for physiological recovery. Definitive reconstruction is performed once the patient's condition stabilizes, typically within 5-10 days. This approach reduces the 'second hit' phenomenon where additional surgical stress can worsen the inflammatory response in critically injured patients. DCO has significantly improved outcomes in polytrauma patients.
Usage
Usage note: Concept borrowed from trauma surgery's 'damage control' principles.
In Context
- "The polytrauma patient was managed with damage control orthopedics principles." — Trauma surgery consultation
- "Following DCO protocols, external fixation was applied with plans for definitive reconstruction." — Operative report