Advances in the management of musculoskeletal trauma

During the past year, several important advances have occurred in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic trauma. The increased use of magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of acute cervical spine injuries has enhanced the ability to treat these patients. The development of better fixation systems for the lumbar spine, particularly pedicle screw systems, has increased our ability to stabilize and decompress fractures and fracture-dislocations in this region. New techniques for pelvic stabilization have proved useful in the treatment of these complex injuries. In extremity trauma, the association of compartment syndrome with intramedullary nailing has gained more attention and more aggressive treatment is advocated for fractures secondary to penetrating trauma.