What Do You Need to Know About External Fixation

External fixation is a surgical technique for treating a fracture. However, it is used only in certain cases, especially those where conventional surgery is not feasible. It involves the use of special orthopedic implants and instruments. In this post, we will have a quick look at the procedure along with why it is used.

What is External Fixation?

External fixation is a type of surgery where the fracture is fixed using special external fixators. This is a special surgery that orthopedic surgeons prefer when internal fixation cannot be performed. Here, orthopedic pins and wires hold the fractured bone fragments from inside and are stabilized with an external frame made of metal rods and screws. Special expertise is required to apply external fixators while treating a fracture. 

Why is External Fixation Used?

External fixation is the choice option for the treatment of severely unstable fractures and fractures with more than 3 bone fragments. In some cases, open fractures are also treated using this technique. External fixators are often used for temporary stabilization of a fracture or until internal fixation is not feasible. In cases where the patient has suffered multiple injuries along with the fracture, the healthcare service provider focuses on treating life-threatening conditions at first. In those cases, the orthopedic surgeon performs external fixation, and internal fixation will be done later. Read More.