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Orthopaedic Service, Tottenham
I am indebted to Mr. E. H. Hambly, F.R.C.S., for the following
report:—
"These clinics continue to be heavily attended in figures for new
patients and old patients. Certain difficulties arise in advising remedial
exercises for children aged 10 to 11 on account of the 11 plus examination,
and also in older age groups, about the age of 15, on account of higher
examinations. This is unfortunate, as it is the girls who stoop over their
desks working hard for such higher examinations who are in the greatest
need of these remedial exercises.
The expense of surgical appliances has been borne in mind constantly
throughout the year, as this is now a major financial item. At first sight,
it appeared that wedges to shoes were cheaper than insoles, but on
looking closer into the problem, the constant renewal of wedges constituted
far greater expense, and much more trouble to the parents.
Our relations with the School for the Physically Handicapped at
Vale Road, are close and cordial, both with Dr. Dunham and his department
and also with Mr. Ives and his staff.
These clinics work also in conjunction with the Prince of Wales's
General Hospital, and St. Ann's General Hospital, inasmuch as all
in-patient operations are performed at these hospitals by me".
Orthopaedic Service, Hornsey
I am indebted to Mr. E. Palser, M.R.C.S., for the following report:—
"During the year attendances at this clinic have been 726 for examination
and 1,194 for treatment by the physiotherapist. The number of new
cases seen was 374, and the number whose treatment ceased was about
the same. Developmental abnormalities especially of the spine, legs,
and feet, often require prolonged treatment and supervision until growth
is completed. A certain number have, therefore, required treatment or
supervision until they have reached school leaving age, and where treatment
is still required they have been referred to the adult services of the
National Health Service.
This year a fitter has been in attendance at all clinics, and this has
reduced the previous time interval between the ordering and supplying
of instruments and appliances. At the same time, decisions on exact
specifications, measurements and fittings have been undertaken in closer
co-operation with the makers.
A few children have been referred for special out-patient treatment
to the Hornsey Central Hospital. Here also X-rays required are taken.
The Hornsey clinic now has its own viewing box which has been of great
use, and of equally great interest to the patients and their parents.
Ten children have required operative treatment, and of these, five
males and four females have been admitted to the Orthopaedic Unit at
Highlands General Hospital, Winchmore Hill, N.21. One infant was
admitted to the Hospital for Sick Children, Great Ormond Street, W.C.1."
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