External Fixators are devices that are used to fix fractures externally.

Advantages:

It is a minimally invasive surgical procedure. It causes less damage to soft tissues than open surgical interventions. For this reason, it preserves the physiology of the union.

If applied with the right mechanical rules, it has a balanced and high stability. It allows walking immediately without waiting for the fracture to heal.

It can also be used in open, comminuted, defective or infected fractures.

Removal of the fixator does not require a surgical procedure.

Disadvantages:

Requires good knowledge of biomechanics for practice.

The outside part is usually bulky.

After the operation, good care is required for the pin tracts. It carries a risk of infection.

Placement close to the joint can cause joint stiffness.

Indications:

Long bone fractures (Especially; Tibia fractures, Radius fractures, Ulna fractures)

Pelvic fractures

Open fractures

Temporary fixation to allow wound healing or care

Arthrodesis

Joint stabilization

Contraindications:

Intra-articular fractures

Avulsion fractures