title: Minimal internal and external fixation in the treatment of open tibial fractures.
abstract: The advantages of rigid internal fixation for open tibial fractures are well documented. There is also a large literature describing various forms of external fixation for open tibial shaft fractures. Because of the enthusiasm for internal and external fixation, the disadvantages and complications warrant new emphasis.
mesh_terms: D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D001858:Bone Nails; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal; D005597:Fractures, Open / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D009984:Orthopedic Fixation Devices / Q000009:adverse effects; D013978:Tibial Fractures / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*