Characteristics of multiple fractures of the long bones of the upper limbs and their treatment

The authors have studied 103 patients with multiple fractures of the long bones of the upper extremities who have been treated at the basic clinic of the Department of orthopaedics and traumatology, at the clinics of the Donetsk Research Institute of Orthopaedics and Traumatology and at the regional traumatologic hospital during the past 15 years. The severity and the diversity of multiple injuries of the upper extremities were evident from the fact that in the 103 patients 220 segments were injured and there were 227 fractures. A classification of the injuries under study and the most rational methods of treatment have been worked out, which ensured positive results in most cases. They are supported by the analysis of the long-term results of the treatment which has been carried out in 61.16% (63) of the patients.