Comminuted bicondylar tibial plateau fractures can be successfully treated with open reduction and medial and lateral plate fixation using 2 incisions. Dysvascular limbs requiring vascular repair are at increased risk for deep sepsis. The use of 2 incisions, temporary spanning external fixation, and proper soft-tissue handling may contribute to a lower wound complication rate than previously reported.

For patients requiring surgical treatment of a humeral shaft fracture, intramedullary nailing and compression plating both provide predictable methods for achieving fracture stabilization and ultimate healing.

Results suggest that unreamed interlocking intramedullary nails are more efficacious than half-pin external fixators, in particular with regard to maintenance of limb alignment. However, the severity of soft tissue injury rather than the choice of implant appears to be the predominant factor influencing rapidity of bone healing and rate of injury site infection.