What is external fixation?
External fixation is to repair fractures using a device that exert pressure to immobilize from the outside of the body. This device, known as the fixation frame, is installed in the operating room, usually on the patient under general anesthesia, and once the fracture is healed, it can be removed. The installation and control of external fixation is usually supervised by an orthopedic surgeon, a medical specialist who focuses on bone care. The healing time of patients who need this type of treatment varies depending on the nature of the fracture and the general level of the patient's health. The frame is adjustable, so the doctor can create the desired level of compression and voltage. It can be cumbersome because it protrudes outside the body, but repair the bones more precisely than the cast. In addition, the lack of a trac or bulky cast may allow the patient to quickly become mobile, accelerating the healing time and reducing the risk of atrophy, blood clots and other complications of prolonged immobility.
This procedure can be recommended in cases of open fractures, where castings and splints would cover access to wounds associated with fracture, making it difficult to provide appropriate care to the patient. If there are concerns that the cast will not adequately immobilable during healing, external fixation may also be recommended. Surgeons evaluate each case individually, given the nature of the injury, the history of the patient and other factors in deciding on the best treatment.
Some risks associated with external fixation include an infection around the location of the pin, injury caused by shock or tightening of the frame and infections of open wounds around the tzlomouné caused by insufficient wound care. Patients are provided with detailed wound care instructions and will be recommended to clean and maintain the wound during the healing process. It may also be necessary to adapt clothing and equipment such as backpacks to adapt to the fixation frame while the PACIent recovers.
When the fracture seems to have heated, X -rays will be carried out to confirm the healing and the outer frame can be removed. Some pins can be left inside the body. They can be permanently left in place or removed in another operation later, depending on the patient's needs and the nature of the situation.