The AO classification of long bone fractures: an early study of its use in clinical practice.

Over a period of 6 months, 543 long bone fractures were classified using the AO classification system. Factors important in determining the management of fractures occurring in three regions; hip, forearm and tibia, were identified. In hip fractures, we found that the anatomical configuration of the fracture, and therefore its classification, generally determined management. However, there were other factors that influenced the more specific form of surgical treatment used. In forearm fractures, the age of the patient was the most important factor determining treatment, while many factors, including consultant preference, determined the treatment of tibial fractures. While we found the system useful for audit purposes, we also found that it was unnecessarily complicated and often fell short of playing a useful role in the planning of management.