Basic Principles in the Treatment of Fractures

The following chapter will address the evolution of the principles of fracture fixation through time since its establishment in 1958 until today. These principles are: (1) Fracture reduction and fixation to restore anatomic relationships, (2) Fracture fixation providing the stability required by the fracture characteristics, (3) Preservation of the blood supply to the soft tissues and bone by gentle surgical techniques, and (4) Early and safe mobilization of the patient.