The purpose of this book is to report on my 17 years of experience in the development and implementation of a closed functional method of treatment of certain fractures of long bones of the appendicular skeleton. My personal experiences, clinical results, and the basic concepts underlying the treatment philosophy are reported. Illustrations demonstrating the techniques of application of functional casts and braces are presented in detail as well as a step-by-step description of the management regime and a discussion of the behavior of fractures under this system. Indications and contraindications for the use of this method of treatment are clearly outlined. I consider it important to compile this information for I believe that the system has withstood the test of time and is sufficiently sound to be incorporated in the armamentarium of the orthopaedic surgeon. Also, it may have a favorable socioeconomic impact since it offers a viable alternative in the treatment of frac tures.
