[Local and systemic trauma in plate osteosynthesis of femur shaft fracture].

Compression plating of fractures of the femur has a number of logistic advantages over intramedullary stabilization techniques though it is equally demanding for the surgeon. In this retrospective study of 77 cases, we try to show that compression plating of fractures of the femoral shaft is still a viable alternative to intramedullary fixation, especially in the light of local complications, postoperative systemic implications for the patient with multiple injuries, and the time required to achieve bone union. The data relating to all three of these aspects permit the conclusion that the results reached with compression plating of both simple and comminuted femoral shaft fractures are comparable to those reported following intramedullary nailing. Our treatment regimen does not involve a higher risk to the patient.