New developments in orthopedic surgery

Several examples of newly developed concepts and techniques have been described. Better results in congenital dislocation of the hip are being achieved by early diagnosis in the infant and the Salter innominate osteotomy in the older child. Halo-femoral traction has been developed as an adjunct in the treatment of severe scoliosis. Compression stress applied to fractures provokes rapid healing. Early active exercises in joint fractures enhance the functional result. New approaches to the intervertebral disk are being used. The externally powered prosthesis is an example of collective effort from diverse scientific areas. Research activities tend to relate more directly to clinical problems. These and many advances not mentioned are manifestations of the continuing maturation of orthopedic surgery as a surgical specialty.