An external skeletal fixator is a type of medical device that is used to hold bones in place while they heal after a fracture or other injury. It typically consists of a frame that is attached to the bone using pins. The frame has adjustable rods that can be tightened or loosened to apply the appropriate amount of pressure to the bone, allowing the bone to heal in the correct position. This type of device is often used in cases where internal fixation, such as the use of screws or plates, is not possible or advisable. It allows for a more gradual and controlled healing process, and can be adjusted as needed to ensure that the bone heals properly.

Veterinary External Skeletal Fixator (ESF) can be used to repair almost any fracture.

Principals
– Aseptic Technique
– Targeting proper location- tension side, minimize soft tissue injury
– Selection of appropriate frame type based on fracture assessment
– Auxiliary fixation if indicated- IM pin +/- tie in, lag screw, cerclage wire
– Maintain reduction and stability during pin and frame placement
– Avoid soft tissue impingement- stab incision, between muscle bellies
– Proper pin insertion technique- pre-drill if possible, avoid insertion wabble, low speed drill to prevent thermal damage
– Engage pin in cis and trans cortex
– Smooth pins and negative profile pins inserted at 70 degree angle to long axis of bone
– Insert pins in same plane when using straight connecting bars
– Far near, near far configuration. Keep half bone diameter or 3 x implant diameter from fracture edge.
– 3-4 pins in each fragment
– Appropriate choice of pin and connecting bar diameter. Pins no more than 20-25% bone diameter
– Optimise distance from connecting bar to skin. Shortest working distance of pins.
– Bone graft if defects