The practitioner’s selection of an external fixation device depends on the severity of the patient’s fracture and on the type of bone alignment needed. Types include uniplanar, multiplanar, unilateral, bilateral, circular, and hybrid fixators.² Here are some examples of external fixation devices.

A bilateral frame (shown below) supports both sides of the bone, promoting stability.²

A unilateral fixator (shown below) supports the bone on one side.²

The Ilizarov fixator is a special type of external fixation device. This device is a combination of rings and tensioned transosseous wires used primarily in limb lengthening, bone transport, and limb salvage. Highly complex, it provides gradual distraction that results in good-quality bone formation with a minimum of complications.³ It also provides enough stability to allow early unrestricted weight bearing.⁴