[Early infection following closed and open shaft fractures].

The term "early infection" should only be used for infections of the soft tissues. Involvement of the major fragments or the medullary cavity indicates either delayed diagnosis or insufficient surgical revision. In addition to already postulated rules of treatment, two further conclusions are being drawn: 1. occasionally it is necessary to apply conservative methods of immobilisation. 2. if careful observation is guaranteed larger fragments may be left in place, as long as they are still in contact with one of the major fragments. At least partial revascularisation is possible.