In adolescents dynamic-compression-plate osteosynthesis is an excellent modality for treating femoral shaft fractures. It provides anatomical stabilisation as well as short hospitalisation and rehabilitation. In contrast, fractures of the tibial shaft are usually treated with casts or by extension. Primary operation is rarely necessary, for example in cases of an impaired neurovascular system. In third degree open fractures we usually recommend external fixation. In our department clinical and radiological late-term controls are performed over a period of at least two years for tibial and four years for femoral shaft fractures.