[Evaluation and treatment principles of open fractures]

The evaluation and treatment of fractures with severe soft tissue involvement requires much experience and knowledge in the handling of the soft parts and in the technique of operative fracture fixation. The mechanism of injury correlates with the energy involved, which in-turn must influence our plan of treatment. We tend today to preceed in different steps that must be planned ahead. Wound debridement and simple fracture stabilization in the first instance, soft tissue coverage in the second phase and definitive fracture fixation in the third. The quicker the patient is given the optimal treatment the better the outcome.