Principles of exposure for extremity surgery

Extremity surgery requires sound anatomical knowledge and adherence to principles of exposure: (1) Position of patient should be optimal for surgery and compatible with adequate and safe anaesthesia; (2) Provide access to the involved areas for suitable surgical procedure; (3) Avoid damage to functional important structures; (4) Produce as little tissue damage as possible; (5) Be adaptable to enlargement or change; (6) Be so done that functional continuity can be restored and the possibility of complications minimized; (7) The healed surgical wound should produce as acceptable cosmetic appearance as possible.