Abstract
Based on the differentiation of myogenic and arthrogenic contractures, the type of the chosen procedure will prove success or failure of surgery. In principle, the malposition of a single joint must never be considered for itself, rather the entire extremity has to be regarded as a functional unit. The malposition of one joint indirectly or directly causes that of the others.
Contractures may require surgical procedures on nerves, tendons, muscles and bones. Contractures complicating spasms should be removed. The final stage of the pathological process should be waited for in cases with calcifications and ossifications.
As contractures and ankylosis are a considerable handicap to the nursing and daily activities of paraplegics, every attempt to correct the malposition is justified even if it only enables the injured to sit in an upright position.
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Gassler, R. Differential diagnosis of hip contractures in paraplegics and their treatment. Spinal Cord 11, 86–87 (1973). https://doi.org/10.1038/sc.1973.7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sc.1973.7