Glued Bone Fractures

On December 15, 1938, 10 AM, Ike Bower brought to me Dr. A. Brockway, orthopaedic specialist [Brockway's contact information] and a friend Mr. Braseman (?). Dr. Brockway had the idea of treating fractures by glueing the bones together, instead of using metal plates, metal being unsatisfactory because of electrolytic action leading to necrosis.

I said that dryness produced by heat would be necessary, and he pointed out that this would be injurious if cells were killed. I suggested that the fractured surfaces be dried to the extent necessary by heat (Mr Braseman suggested hot air), with hot blue applied immediately and cooled quickly (Mr Braseman suggested cold air).

Dr. Brockway said that the glue should be capable of complete absorption in the body after holding for three weeks. I said that I thought an animal glue should have this property.

I pointed out that rubber-base cement, casein glue, etc. would probably be unsatisfactory, but that animal glue, containing protein products, should be good.

He said that the glue should be sterile. I said that animal glue could be sterilized. I pointed out the necessity of having close approximation of the fractured surfaces in order that a good strong joint be obtained.

He said that liquids could be kept away for a few minutes, and suggested trying the joints in physiological salt solution.