Orthesen in der Unfallchirurgie

Abstract

Background: The use of orthoses as assistive medical devices has become established in orthopedic surgery as well as in acute therapy. Of the medical orthotic devices prescribed, 22 % are in connection with a surgical intervention. Aim: This article provides an overview of requirements for the use of orthotic devices and the different configurations in particular for such applications as ankle fractures, injuries to the knee joint, fractures of the wrist and forearm and unstable elbow injuries. Furthermore, the benefits of knee braces for correction of varus osteoarthritis are presented. The modes of operation of the various orthotic devices are described according to the different requirements in perioperative and postoperative therapy. Orthoses can be used to immobilize, stabilize, mobilize, relieve, reduce, correct and replace deficient body functions. Although the potential benefits of these assistive devices are often obvious, scientific evidence is sparse and typically focused on limited therapeutic aspects. Conclusion: This article presents the wide range of applications of orthoses and similar medical aids in the daily practice of acute orthopedic surgery and is aimed at stimulating further research on the benefits of using orthotic devices in trauma surgery.