Rigid osteosynthesis in open diaphyseal fractures of the long bones: immediate or deferred treatment.

Fifty nine cases of open diaphyseal fractures of the long bones treated by rigid osteosynthesis were examined with reference to their course and outcome in relation to whether the operation was immediate of deferred. No significant differences arose as between the two groups of cases. It thus appears that the timing of the operation has no important repercussions on the course and the result.