[The radiologic evaluation of osteosyntheses]

Surgeons, orthopedic surgeons, and neurosurgeons employ a wide variety of different osteosynthetic devices in the treatment of fractures and in spinal surgery. In order to assess these instruments correctly, the radiologist should be aware of their purpose and normal appearance. The complications should be identified, such as delayed union, pseudarthrosis, dislocation, device loosening, fracture of the device, osteomyelitis, and re-fracture. To evaluate the fixation device adequately two plain radiographs are mandatory. Normal fracture healing and the most commonly used fixation devices, the abnormalities of fracture healing and their complications are discussed.