The aim of this book is to provide a readily accessible reference for the classification and diagnosis of injuries affecting the musculoskeletal system. The broad principles of treatment and important complications are also covered.

We have tried to present the text in a simple and easy to understand format in the hope that this book would improve the readers' basic knowledge of orthopaedic trauma.

Orthopaedic surgeons are expected to learn and remember the traditional classification systems for common fractures, especially those that have stood the test of time. These classifications have been described in sufficient detail in the text. However, we have covered only the broad principles of the AO (ASIF) classification system and minor details have been intentionally omitted.

The book is divided into various chapters that systematically cover most of the commonly encountered problems in orthopaedic trauma. We have endeavoured to include the relevant clinical details of most injuries involving the musculoskeletal system.

We have combined our experience with knowledge gained from standard books such as Rockwood & Green's Fractures (Third Edition; Vols I–III; J.B. Lippincott Company), The Comprehensive Classification of Fractures of Long Bones (Muller et al., Springer-Verlag) and Apley's System of Orthopaedics and Fractures (Seventh Edition; Butterworth-Heinemann) in writing this manuscript. We have also tried to provide up-to-date information, especially in relation to fracture treatment, by referring to the Orthopaedic Knowledge Update: Home Study Syllabus (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, First Indian Edition 2004, Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers (P) Ltd).