[Management strategy of multiple fractures of long tubular bones within the scope of polytrauma].

Fractures of both femura in multitrauma patients have a high incidence of secondary respiratory failure. To avoid this vital complication as the first step to multiple organ failure femur fractures should be stabilised as soon as possible after successful treatment of hypovolaemic shock and acute life saving operations. The use of an external fixation in concomitant thoracic injury as a quick stabilisation, together with prophylactic mechanical ventilation, will probably lower the incidence of respiratory failure.