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This volume deals with the transosseous external fixation techniques that I have been developing over the course of the past 40 years. During this time, our research in medicine, biology and engineering has led to the evolution of more than 800 unique, highly effective methods of treatment that extend beyond the realm of traumatology and orthopedics. The book features a comprehensive theoretical and clinical description of the biologic laws governing the depen dence of the shape-forming processes of bones and joints upon the adequacy of blood supply, as well as a delineation of the effect of tension-stress upon the genesis and growth of tissues. I have in cluded our latest data on tissue growth and regeneration during transosseous osteosyntheses. The book summarizes the biomechanical principles of applica tion of my apparatus; clinical cases selected from more than 25000 patients illustrate the management of some of the most complex disorders of the locomotor system. New solutions to many therapeutic problems are described. In particular, severe limb trauma with large defects of bone, vessels, nerves and skin can be managed without resort to transplantation. Radical debridement surgery can be followed by a one-step restora tion of the missing tissue, thus decreasing the likelihood of a serious wound infection or an amputation.

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1 Historical Background of Transosseous Osteosynthesis.- References.- 2 The Apparatus: Components and Biomechanical Principles of Application.- 3 The Tension-Stress Effect on the Genesis and Growth of Tissues.- 4 The Influence of Blood Supply and Loading Upon the Shape-Forming Processes in Bones and Joints.- 5 Osteogenesis and Hematopoiesis.- Clinical Methods.- 6 Lengthening of Upper and Lower Limb Segments.- 7 Correction of Deformities of Long Tubular Bones with Simultaneous Limb Lengthening.- 8 The Treatment of Fractures: Theoretical Considerations, Experimental Studies, and Clinical Applications of the Apparatus.- 9 Pseudarthroses and Defects of Long Tubular Bones.- 10 The Treatment of Pseudarthroses Complicated by Osteomyelitis and the Elimination of Purulent Cavities.- Treatment of Disorders of the Foot.- 11 Nonoperative Correction of Foot Deformities.- 12 Operative Correction of Foot Deformities.- Treatment of Disorders of the Hand.- 13 Treatment of Diseases and Injuries of the Hand.- Treatment of Disorders of the Hip.- 14 Fractures of the Femoral Neck.- 15 Pseudarthrosis of the Femoral Neck.- 16 Hip Dislocations.- 17 Coxa Vara.- 18 Coxarthrosis.- 19 Coxa Vara with Congenital Pseudarthrosis.- 20 Defects of the Proximal Femur.

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