THE MECHANICS OF A NEW PLASTER SHELL IN THE TREATMENT OF POTT'S DISEASE IN CHILDREN, WITH LATERAL X-RAY CONTROL

¹ The Orthopaedic Clinic, Children's Hospital, Boston, Mass., Orthopaedic Surgeon J. N. Adam Memorial Hospital, Perrysburg, N. Y.

1. The defects of the old shell have been revealed and it has been made a practical instrument through which the fundamental principles of therapy may be applied in the treatment of Pott's disease.

2. X-ray controls are necessary to prove its efficiency.

3. The fulcrum should not be placed opposite the apex of the kyphos except in the region of the seventh dorsal vertebra.

4. In lesions above the seventh dorsal vertebra the fulcrum should be made below the apex of the kyphos, one-quarter of an inch for each vertebra above this level.

5. In lesions below the eighth dorsal the fulcrum should be made above the apex of the kyphos, approximately one-quarter of an inch for each vertebra below this level.

6. The new shell with an adjustable fulcrum has thus far, on a limited number of cases, overcome the defects of the old one. It is much more comfortable for the patient, easier to handle, and much less expensive; besides being fully practical for treatment in the home and out-patient department.

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