[Soft tissue calcification - a complication in intensive care patient (author's transl)].

In this paper two cases of soft tissue calcification in patients suffering from severe head injuries are reported. The pathologic physiology of calcium and phosphate metabolism and possible causes of soft tissue calcifications are discussed. The value of prophylaxis is emphasized. If treatment by aluminum hydroxide or Na2SO4-infusions does not lead to success surgical treatment will be necessary. Presently therapy by vitamin D, diphosphonates and thyreocalcitonin is under clinical investigation.