External fixation

External fixation is a surgical technique using percutaneous pins or wires inserted into bone and connected to an external metal frame, such as rings and threaded rods, to stabilize fractures, dislocated joints, or deformities.[1][4][7][10] It maintains bone length, alignment, and rotation while allowing soft tissue preservation and early weight-bearing in some cases.[1][10] Developed historically from methods like those by Hoffman and popularized by Ilizarov in the mid-20th century, it excels in complex trauma, infected bone (osteomyelitis), pediatric fractures, and limb reconstruction where internal fixation risks contamination or is unsuitable.[1][7] Biomechanically, frame placement (e.g., unilateral or circular) optimizes stability against bending and axial forces, promoting healing via controlled motion at the fracture site.[1][2] Applications include provisional stabilization in damage control orthopedics to reduce soft tissue injury and definitive treatment for nonunions or lengthening.[1][10] Challenges involve infection risks at pin sites, requiring rigorous cleaning, and the device's temporary nature until bony union.[1][7][10] It is not a molecular entity like a receptor or enzyme but a mechanical orthopedic device.[1][4][7][10]

Other names

External fixatorIlizarov apparatusTaylor Spatial FrameOctopod External Fixator