[Plate fixation and open wound treatment in infected intramedullar nails]

In treating patients who present with an extensive non-union due to infected intramedullary nail, bone healing can be achieved within a few weeks through a policy of active management. Following excision of the infected tissue and thorough irrigation, the fracture site is stabilized by a plate fixation and a packet with cancellous bone. The wound overlying the bone is left open to granulate. No complications were observed during the course of healing in 7 cases (5 tibia, 2 femur) managed this way. The method is based on classical principles of orthopedics and the treatment of infection. Such has been its impressive success, that it would seem to warrant not only close attention but also strong recommendation.