[Fractures of the spine - long-term results of functional treatment (author's transl)].

644 fractures of the spine without paraplegia treated at the "Bergmannsheil" Hospital in Bochum between 1963 and 1977 are reported. Indications and long-term results of functional treatment are discussed. More than 80 per cent of the anterior wedge fractures had a compression rate of less than one third. Even in early mobilization there is normally no increase in deformity. 8.3 per cent with an increase in deformity had an osteoporosis or a compound fracture. Unstable fractures are stabilized by springs and plates. In cases with great deformity surgical treatment has to be discussed, too.