A new ankle spanning fixator construct for distal tibia fractures: optimizing visualization, minimizing pin problems, and protecting the heel.

Abstract

Pilon and ankle fractures and ligamentous injuries about the ankle often require external fixation to allow for soft tissue stabilization before definitive surgery. Often used external fixator constructs can cause obscuring of the site of injury on radiographs, pin tract infections, loosening of calcaenal pin fixation, and heel ulcerations. A novel and simple technique of placing the calcaneal pins posteriorly and using a U-shaped bar allows for a construct that reduces or eliminates many of these drawbacks during the time it takes for soft tissue swelling to permit definitive fixation.