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Physicians have been using external fixation to treat fractures for more than 2000 years. The primary goal of external fixation is to maintain the length, alignment, and rotation of the fracture. External fixation can serve as provisional fixation or definitive fixation purposes. Both methods can be performed in conjunction with partial internal fixation if necessary. It is important for orthopedic surgeons to be familiar with the techniques and principles of external fixation for various fractures of the upper extremity, lower extremity, and pelvis.
Fracture healing physiology largely depends on the mode of fixation and level of stability. Relative fracture stability, such as external fixation, results in secondary enchondral bone healing. There are also several ways to alter the external fixation construct to make the fracture more or less stable.
