[A review of 86 fractures of the lower end of the femur treated by internal fixation using A.O. blade-plates (author's transl)].

The authors have treated 86 fractures of the lower end of the femur by internal fixation with an A.O. blade-plate. An adequate follow up was made in 71 cases. A classification of the fractures is given. Half of the fractures were either complex or involved the joint. The technique that was used is described. The authors consider that an immediate cancellous autogenous bone graft is worthwhile. 8 cases of non-union, 7 stiff knees and 31 malunions were seen; 70 per cent of cases achieved satisfactory function.