Plate fixation of open fractures of the tibia.

The results of immediate plate fixation of 97 open fractures of the tibial shaft in 95 patients are reported. Significant joint stiffness occurred in 11.4% and angular malunion of greater than 5 degrees in any plane was seen in 3.1%. The infection rate was 10.3%. However, even in those cases which develop delayed union or other complications, plate fixation of open fractures can produce excellent recovery of limb function.