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CHAPTER 18
In fractures of the femur, we have been using modified Thomas splint. Freehafer &
Lawry (1963) use a form of cushion-splint. Healing and consolidation of this fracture
occur relatively rapidly, at a certain stage with considerable periosseous calcification
around the fracture (Eichenholtz, 1962). However, alignment and consolidation, in
particular of fractures of the mid-shaft of the femur, may be difficult or even impossible
due to marked spasticity. In one of our patients with a comminuted fracture of the right
mid-femur, I had first to eliminate the profound spasticity by an intrathecal alcohol block
before the fracture could be explored surgically and united by plating (Dr Michaelis).
More or less large haemotomata with excessive extraosseous calcification occur
frequently following fractures of long bones, especially if an extensive haematoma has
developed surrounding the fracture. However, these calcifications decrease in later stages
of the healing process and are eventually absorbed. This was seen, in particular, in children
as seen in Figs. 1023 and b.
