Introduction to External Bone Fixation
External fixation is a surgical method used to stabilize broken bones using a frame outside the body. The frame is connected to the bone through pins or wires inserted through the skin. This technique helps keep the bone aligned while it heals.
The Surgical Process Explained
The surgeon starts by inserting stainless steel or titanium pins or wires into the bone fragments through small incisions in the skin. These are connected to an external frame made of carbon fiber or stainless steel and fixed using clamps and connecting rods. Power drills, drill sleeves, coupling clamps, and tensioning devices are used during construction to ensure rigidity. The frame may be adjusted during healing to correct bone length or rotational alignment. Instruments such as external fixation frames, Schanz screws, connecting rods, clamps, and tensioning devices, support precise construction. This method is especially helpful when surrounding soft tissues are too fragile for internal fixation.
Indications for This Procedure
- Treatment of severe open fractures where the risk of infection is high
- Management of complex, unstable limb fractures requiring external support
- Bone lengthening or deformity correction procedures
- Temporary stabilization in polytrauma cases before definitive surgery
- Preservation of soft tissues when internal implants are contraindicated
Instruments Required
- External Fixator Frame
- Schanz Screws
- Connecting Rods
- Clamps for External Fixator
- Carbon Fiber Rods
- Pin-to-Rod Coupling Clamps
- Drill Sleeves
- Tensioning Devices
- Bone Drilling Machine
- Wire Fixation Bolts
Where External Fixation Is Most Common
- United States
- Germany
- India
- China
- Brazil
Key Advantages of External Fixation
- Allows stabilization of bone while preserving and protecting surrounding soft tissues
- Enables wound access and dressing changes without disturbing the fracture alignment
- Reduces risk of deep infection in contaminated or open fractures
- Permits gradual adjustment of bone alignment during recovery
- Supports correction of limb length discrepancies or bone deformities
- Provides rapid stabilization in emergency trauma scenarios
Advin Health Care is a leading manufacturer of External Fixation related products, offering high-quality surgical tools such as frames, screws, rods, and tensioning devices that meet international standards and support orthopedic care globally
Get Connected:
+91 98989 50530 | ortho@advinhealthcare.com | www.advinortho.com