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1783194 
Journal Article 
Electrolyte and trace element status following osteosynthetic operations 
Keller, T; Gehring, L; Grafe, S; Hetzel, G; Loser, T 
1999 
1 
Trace Elements and Electrolytes
ISSN: 0946-2104 
16 
4 
183-191 
WOS:000082994800004 
The content level of electrolytes and trace elements in the
blood plasma of patients following an accident and/or osteosynthetic intervention is influenced
by numerous factors. This study describes the trace element levels of patients before and up to 5
days after osteosynthetic treatment. The courses of bromine, calcium, cesium, copper, germanium,
iron, magnesium, molybdenum, phosphorus, rubidium, selenium, strontium, titanium and zinc levels
were analyzed, taking particular account of inflammatory complications during the healing
process, the position of the fracture, and the gender and age of the patients. Significant
differences in the trace element patterns were found with respect to the appearance of
inflammatory complications and to the severity of the fracture. The findings are discussed with
reference to possible biological functions of the individual elements as part of the healing
process. 
osteosynthesis; postoperative infection; early detection; electrolytes and trace elements