Classification systems are a crucial part of radiology, diagnosis, communication between surgeons, and management. The ideal classification system would feature:
– High inter- and intra-observer reliability and repeatability
– Guides management
– Strong correlation to prognosis
– Ease of use and widespread use
– Simple
Obviously this does not often occur, and many classification systems are not commonly used as they fail many of these tests. For example the AO classification system is a comprehensive system that can be applied to any fracture pattern throughout the body, but it is not straight-forward, and does not necessarily correlate to prognosis or guide management, as it does not directly consider the soft tissue components of injuries. The below pages provide a selection of classification systems, with some assessment of their utility.
– Classification system – Shoulder girdle
– Classification system – Upper limb
– Classification system – Pelvis and hip
– Classification system – Lower limb
– Classification system – Periprosthetic fractures
– Classification system – Pathological processes
References
Author Contributions
Sean Griffiths, WH Resident, 2020