[Experiences with plate fixation in 131 femoral shaft fractures]. 
A consecutive series of 131 comminuted fractures of the femur in 123 patients has been reviewed.  All fractures were stabilized by means of rigid ASIF-plate fixation (mostly DCP).  About 60% of the patients were polyfractured or polytraumatized (including brain, chest and abdominal injuries).  In 85% of the cases the fracture was stabilized within 24 h after the accident and usually the patients remained on a ventilator with PEEP for 1 to 2 days postoperatively.  Of the 4 postoperative deaths only two patients died of a pulmonary complication.  All patients could be reexamined 1-3 years postoperatively.  Although a number of them had suffered from complications (osteitis, fatigue fractures of the plate, delayed union) and had to be reoperated,92% of the cases displayed an excellent or good functionl result.  The factors to reduce the complication rate(i.e.  primary cancellous bonegraft) are being discussed.