[Shortcomings and hazards of the Schede-type of vertical suspension]

Because of the results of a large number of long-term check-ups the adhesive tape--extension treatment recommended for fractures of the femur in early infancy has been much criticized in the past two decades. Allergy to the adhesive tape, skin necrosis and mainly abnormal position of the foot on recovery made it necessary to modify the procedure and to discuss the over-estimation of treatments of this type. One hundred and thirteen patients were followed up for a long time (maximum 17 years) after the application of the Schede-type suspension and in none of the cases was a malformed position of the foot with grave consequences or interfering with development observed. No case has been reported in the literature in which death could be attributed to the adhesive tape-extension, while surgical intervention might have a fatal outcome in some rare cases. The authors see no indication for rejecting entirely the Schede-type suspension.