[Indications for the interlocking nailing in open fractures]

The history of intramedullary nailing leads us to assume that septic complications arising from the treatment of open fractures through marrow nailing are largely due to reaming and need no longer to a full extent be put down to treatment by locking nailing. Locking nailing of an open fracture (all three degrees) of the femur can be recommended as long as the periosteum is not exposed over large segments, and coverage with soft tissue is possible. Locking nailing of the lower leg can only be recommended with open fractures of the first degree. With fractures of the second and third degrees the fixateur externe is the treatment of choice.