Seminal papers in orthopaedic trauma

Over recent decades, the concept of Evidence-Based Medicine has come to form the cornerstone of clinical practice in all medical specialities, including Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery. Management of the trauma patient is part of everyday practice for most Orthopaedic Surgeons. As such, it is important to be aware of the seminal research studies that have informed current clinical practice. It is also important that all surgeons, including surgeons-in-training, follow the process of ongoing professional development such that their clinical practice remains current and up to date. In this article, we critically evaluate a number of important research papers, which have been selected for their impact on contemporary clinical practice, recognized in many orthopaedic teaching programmes.