Abstract
The use of external fixation devices to assist in the management of lower extremity
trauma and reconstruction continues to rise. Despite the distinct advantages of external
fixation, complications from external fixators continue to exist. The complicated
external fixator–associated pin site may be a potential source of significant morbidity,
especially in the at-risk patient, which may lead to soft tissue healing problems
and infections, as well as osteomyelitis. This article describes both simple as well
as more complex techniques that the authors use in the prevention and management of
complications arising from external fixator pin sites, and solutions to the difficult
task of incorporating external fixator wires into negative-pressure dressings.
Level of Evidence
Keywords
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References
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Article info
Footnotes
Financial Disclosure: None reported.
Conflict of Interest: None reported.
Identification
Copyright
© 2010 American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
