The different types
Since there are different indications for the application of an external fixator, there are different types of fixator constructions. A relatively common localization requiring the use of an external fixator in case of a fracture is a fracture of the elbow. This is formed by the humerus as well as by the bones of the forearm, radius and ulna.
For fractures of the elbow joint, a so-called movement fixator is usually used, which allows movement in the elbow joint and thus complications such as stiffness in the elbow joint occur far less frequently after the fracture has healed. A fracture in the wrist is also suitable for the application of an external fixator. The wrist consists of a large number of small bones, whose interaction with muscles and tendon attachments allows a variety of different movements in the joint.
Injuries to the bones of the forearm, such as the radius, can also result in the use of an external fixator. Depending on the injury, one or two connecting rods are used to connect the screws implanted in the bone. The connection of the screws can extend beyond the wrist and temporarily stiffen it.
Whether this is necessary also depends on the bones involved and the extent of the injury.Broken bones of the pelvic ring are massive injuries which can also be partially treated with an external fixator. Especially when it is an injury in the context of an emergency, the simplicity of the installation of the fixator and thus the short duration until the pelvis is fixed is a great advantage of this method. Depending on the pattern of injury, however, a fixator system must be combined with other methods in order to achieve sufficient stability of the pelvis.
Since a large number of different pelvic bone fractures are possible, at least as many different types of fixator are possible. Most variants connect one half of the pelvic ring to the other. The upper ankle joint is one of the joints of the human body most frequently affected by bone fractures.
For certain injuries, the use of an external fixator is also indicated here. Depending on the injury, different fixator systems may be used. The main differences are the number of screws and connecting bars inserted and their implantation location. An external fixator may also be required in the event of a calcaneal fracture.
