First experience with the use of compression cerclage Gundolf in orthopaedic and trauma surgery. A preliminary report.

In this prospective study we describe our experience with a new method of osteosynthesis of fissures, spiral and comminuted fractures of long bones of the extremities using the titanium compression cerclage of Gundolf (CCG). The operative technique is described in detail, and the results are presented for 50 operated patients who were followed up until fracture consolidation. The technique of application of the CCG is simple and quick and according to the results obtained ensures a permanent fixation at the site of the fracture. No cerclage-related complications such as stress shielding, corrosion, breakage of the band and impairment of the superficial cortical blood supply were radiologically observed in this series. We recommend the use of this titanium band in difficult cases of fractures of the long bones as well as in selected cases of primary and particularly revision hip arthroplasty.