[Soft tissue infection--osteitis--osteomyelitis].

Statistically the posttraumatic osteitis shows a clear tendency to decrease from 1972-76 in comparison with 1982-86 (AO/ASIF-documentation). The incidence of infection varies considerably according to the different anatomical location of fractures. More recently atypical manifestations became of more importance and ask for differentiated bacteriological examinations. A close postoperative follow-up and exact wound-observations enable an immediate and adequate therapy in case of an infection.