title: Epidemiology and management of open fractures of the lower limb.
abstract: Epidemiological analysis indicates that 40% of open fractures occur in the lower limb and that the tibial and femoral diaphyses are most commonly affected. Recent advances in fracture stabilization and soft tissue reconstruction technique have improved the outcome of these fractures.
authors.affiliation: Edinburgh Orthopaedic Trauma Unit, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Howard
authors.forename: C M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Court-Brown
mesh_terms: D000671:Amputation, Surgical; D003646:Debridement; D003663:Decision Trees; D016267:External Fixators; D005597:Fractures, Open / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007869:Leg Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D017695:Soft Tissue Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000379:methods