Management of soft tissue wounds associated with type III open fractures

The orthopedist's goals are to prevent wound infection, expedite fracture healing, and restore optimal function. The importance of the soft tissue envelope to fracture healing is well recognized. In spite of continual research concerning wound repair, we remain at a loss to define precisely what starts the wound healing process and what ultimately stops it. In this article, we consider the basic science of wound repair, the effects of the patient's nutrition and volume status, soft tissue wound dressing options, soft tissue transfers, and specific recommendations.