ROLE OF ASTHISHRINKHALA LEPA (CISSUS QUADRINGULARIS) ALONG WITH IMMOBILIZATION IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ASTHIBHAGNA (FRACTURE): A CASE STUDY

Fracture is a very common condition we see in day-to-day surgical practice. Due to increasing road traffic accidents and trauma, fracture cases are rising. For proper healing, a fracture needs anatomical reduction, good immobilization and good blood supply. Even after proper plaster, many patients complain of persistent pain, swelling and delayed healing. In Ayurveda, fracture is called Asthibhagna. Acharya Sushruta has described its management as Bhagna Sthapana - reduction of fracture fragments, Kushabandha - proper immobilization with splints and bandages, and Lepa and internal medicines for faster healing. One such important drug is Asthishrinkhala (Cissus quadrangularis Linn.) which is famous as Hadjod or bone setter. Acharya Sushruta and Bhavaprakasha have mentioned Alepa as one of the important measures in Bhagna Chikitsa for reducing swelling and pain and for early Sandhana. The local application of Asthishrinkhala in the form of Lepa is thought to provide direct anti-inflammatory, analgesic and bone healing benefits at the fracture site. The present case study documents the clinical outcome of Asthishrinkhala Lepa along with immobilization helps in reducing pain, swelling and accelerates fracture healing. It is safe, simple, cost-effective and can be used as an external supportive therapy.