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Preoperative diagnosis of pituitary abscess is very difficult. In particular, differentiation from other cystic processes of the sellar region is delicate. The clinical and radiological findings of a case of pituitary abscess are presented. Since CT and MRI are of major importance for routine pituitary screening, the aspects of these methods are emphasized. In our experience, both methods can contribute to preoperative diagnosis.

Knee ligament injuries associated with femoral shaft fractures can severely influence the functional results of treatment. In a follow-up of 59 operatively treated femoral shaft fractures 18.6% of the patients revealed ligamentous damages. In all cases one or both of the cruciate ligaments were injured. Especially polytraumatized car front-seat passengers are at higher risk with 30.8% ligament ruptures. While only 61.6% of the ligament injuries were primarily diagnosed, the testing of knee joint stability after osteosynthesis of a femoral fracture is essential. Furthermore arthroscopy should be performed if there is any hint of ligamentous damage. The ruptures of the anterior cruciate ligament and the ligamentous avulsion fractures can be successfully treated on by operative means.

The risk of secondary osteoarthritis after proximal tibial fractures is influenced by the reconstruction of both the articular surface and associated knee ligament injuries. In a follow-up of 69 operatively treated tibial head fractures 36.2% revealed ligamentous damages. At high risk were young male patients with fractures of the medial or both tibial condyles. Only 33% of the ligament damages were the cause of fracture dislocations as described by Moore. Avulsion fractures of the knee ligaments can be successfully treated on by primary fixation. For ruptures of the medial collateral ligament a functional therapy is often sufficient whereas damages of the cruciate ligaments need secondary reconstruction.

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