[Follow-up results of 102 tibial shaft fractures stabilized by dynamic compression plate osteosynthesis]

From 1978 to 1982, 102 tibial shaft fractures in 100 patients were treated with a dynamic compression plate in our trauma center. Only 61 fractures were operated upon primarily. 84 fractures were followed for an average of 19,8 months. The mean hospital stay was 21.5 days. Postoperative minor would problems were present in ten fractures. The infection rate was 1.2% and non-union developed in 1.2%. In six fractures a second stabilisation was necessary. 88.1% of the patients had a good end result. The plate osteosynthesis of closed and first degree open tibial shaft fractures proved to be a reliable treatment procedure, when it is made by expert surgeons and in accordance with the AO-principles of fracture treatment.