Search PubMed⌕ Search

SEARCH · Search PubMed

Results for “External Fixators”

Search indexed PubMed citations on genomics, clinical trials, systematic reviews and public health. Explore titles, authors and supplied subject terms, then open the PubMed record.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 1,585 records · Page 88Linked to original sources
PubMed1990

Ilizarov external fixation. Surgical principles, nursing implications.

The role of the perioperative nurse in caring for a patient with an innovative procedure such as the Ilizarov device is challenging. Because of the problem fracture, the patient usually has had multiple unsuccessful surgical experiences and may express considerable concern and anxiety. As perioperative patient advocates, nurses must encourage patients to be their own spokespersons and to ask questions when they do not understand. The patient advocacy role becomes even more important when the patient undergoes a new procedure. It is our experience with this procedure that both patients and professional staff have many questions during the postoperative period. It is essential that the perioperative nurse establish a communication climate among the patient and members of the interdisciplinary team that promotes collaboration and problem solving on behalf of the patient undergoing this unique surgical procedure.

Adult↗
PubMed2001

Fluid accumulation and the rapid spread of bacteria in the pathogenesis of external fixator pin track infection.

An animal model was used to study the pathogenesis of pin track infection. The roles of fluid accumulation around the pin/bone interface and mechanical loosening of the pin were specifically studied. In addition, the spread of bacteria in relation to the clinical appearance of the pin track was assessed. This study demonstrated that fluid accumulation around the interface is an important factor in the spread of infection from the superficial wound track to the medulla of the bone. Spread occurs despite the absence of mechanical pin loosening, and can occur before any clinical features of infection are apparent.

Animals↗
PubMed2002

Hybrid external fixation for tibial plateau fractures: clinical and biomechanical correlation.

The biomechanical data support the use of tensioned wire fixation to stabilize complex fractures of the proximal tibia. The authors will show that the stability of a four-wire construct is comparable to the gold standard of dual plating internal fixation techniques. Using these techniques, many recent investigators have demonstrated improved clinical results, with average knee scores for most patients ranging from 85 to 90.

Biomechanical Phenomena↗
PubMed1997

Correlation of wrist ligamentotaxis with carpal distraction: implications for external fixation.

Cadaver forearms were tested to measure carpal bone separation and wrist ligament tension in response to MTS-based incremental wrist distraction. Distraction of 2 mm separated the proximal carpal row from the radius and transmitted an average tension of 8 N. The mid-carpal joint also began to widen at this level of distraction. Distraction of 4 mm resulted in an average tension of 20 N. At this level of distraction, radioscaphoid separation started to exceed radiolunate separation. A transition from low- to high-stiffness response was observed over a range of 4-8 mm distraction for the 12 specimens tested, with an average tension of 80 N associated with 8 mm distraction. Average values of carpal height ratio, revised carpal height ratio, and carpal height index were found to be poor indicators of distraction, owing to their high variability between specimens.

Cadaver↗
PubMed2000

Using the Ilizarov external fixation device for skin expansion.

Addressing war injuries requires tailoring treatment that provides the best functional and aesthetic results within a reasonable period of time. The authors report a young soldier who sustained a gunshot injury that caused an open fracture of the proximal tibia and patella (Gustilo type B-III). A local muscle flap could not be used, and thus the authors decided to use the already applied Ilizarov device for gradual expansion of the wound edge. The expanded skin covered the exposed fracture successfully, and later enabled solid union of the fracture. This reconstructive method seems to be an original solution for the management of open fractures, and additional proof that well-vascularized skin may be equivalent to a muscle flap, and may be considered for selected patients.

Adult↗
PubMed1996

Effects of external fixation and limb lengthening on peripheral nerve function.

To identify factors affecting peripheral nerve function during limb lengthening, serial somatosensory evoked potentials studies were performed in 18 goats and correlated with gross appearance of the soft tissues at necropsy. In 15 goats, a 20% or 30% tibial lengthening was done using the Ilizarov apparatus at a rate of 0.75 mm per day and rhythm of 1, 4, or 720 times per day. Three animals served as frame/corticotomy controls. Seven lengthened and 2 control animals maintained normal somatosensory evoked potentials throughout the study. At necropsy, the peroneal and tibial nerves appeared grossly normal. In one control animal with irreversible loss of evoked potentials documented intraoperatively, peroneal nerve impalement by a transfixion wire was identified at necropsy. Eight lengthened animals experienced significant changes of peroneal nerve conduction. In 6 of these 8 animals, transfixion wires were found to be disrupting the nerve in some way. In the remaining 2 animals, no offending wires were identified, but there was extensive diffuse soft tissue fibrosis within the extremity. The rhythm of distraction did not have an important influence on evoked potential changes during the course of distraction. Although there was a correlation between the amount of lengthening performed and the degree of evoked potentials deterioration, the anatomic relationship between the wires and nerves was a more important factor in the development of these abnormalities.

Animals↗
PubMed1998

Treatment of nonunion of the humerus using the Ilizarov external fixator.

Ilizarov's method of monofocal compression was used in 30 humeri with a diaphyseal pseudarthrosis. Twenty-one patients had previous surgery but had loosening of the osteosynthesis material. Nine patients initially were treated with a hanging cast, resulting in interfragmentary distraction. Fourteen nonunions were hypertrophic, and 16 were atrophic, of which six were infected. A complete circular frame was used only in the first nine patients, whereas the remaining 21 patients were treated with the modified semicircular fixator. Union was obtained in all but two patients, with an average consolidation time of 4.5 months (range, 2.5-10 months). No patient required additional bone grafting. Apart from superficial pin tract infection seen in most of the patients, three had a minor temporary sensory neurologic problem. Four patients experienced a second fracture after removal of the fixator that required a second application of an Ilizarov frame. Although similar results with regard to union are reported after plate osteosynthesis, there was no radial nerve palsy or deep infection in this series, indicating that the treatment by the Ilizarov technique is associated with less complications. The authors' findings suggest that the Ilizarov method is a reliable treatment for humeral nonunions, even after multiple previous operations or in the event of infection.

Adolescent↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Use of Ilizarov external fixator to treat joint pterygia.

Joint pterygia are rare conditions characterized by joint-flexion contractures and webbing of the overlying skin and subcutaneous structures. Treatment is difficult because the neurovascular bundle is often displaced into the web, and only moderate success has been reported with past treatment options. A retrospective review was performed on five patients with six involved joints: two antecubital pterygia and four popliteal pterygia. The Ilizarov technique was used for gradual correction of pterygia through the joint (arthrodiastasis). Primary treatment goals included improvement in functional extension, hygiene independence, and cosmesis. Ambulation was also an objective in the patients with popliteal pterygia. For inclusion in this study, a minimum of 2 years' follow-up was required after the device was removed. Preoperative goals were met in four of the six joints. Initial improvement in total arc of motion was noted; however, some regression was common. Complications were frequent, and there was a learning curve for proficiency with the Ilizarov technique. We believe that the Ilizarov technique provides a treatment option for antecubital and popliteal pterygia.

Child↗