What is an external fixator?
External fixation has been used for the treatment of bone injury since the early 1900s. 20 to 30 years ago, external fixators began to compliment other systems of fracture repair (plates, rods, and screws), but they developed a reputation for requiring extra effort, having the risk of delaying healing, and the potential for pin site infection. During the past fifteen years, circular external fixation has met with success in the treatment of congenital, developmental, and post-traumatic orthopedic conditions. The original Ilizarov external fixator consists of stainless steel rings, connected by threaded rods. 1) Each ring is attached to the underlying bone segment by 2 or more wires, placed under tension to increase stability, yet maintain axial micromotion. Titanium pins are also used for supporting the bone segments. A large variety of external fixators are now available for use. Today s fixators are very durable, and are generally capable of holding full weight. Most patients can con
