A Prospective Trial Comparing the Cost of Post Operative X-rays for Fractures Treated With Stable Internal Fixation

Treatment group: these patients will not have routine post-operative in hospital radiographs, or radiographs in clinic at two weeks. After examining the patient, the surgeon or resident can order radiographs if required at any time. The decision will be made based on patient complaints of increased pain, appearance of abuse of the splint or cast suggesting lack of compliance or visible clinical deformity of the limb. The reason leading to radiographs will be documented by the ordering physician. If radiographs are ordered based on a wound complication, this will be specifically documented. Radiographic findings will be documented on a form identical to that used for the control group.