In Practice 15: 183-192 (1993)
© 1993 British Veterinary Association

Use of external fixators for fracture treatment in small animals

The external fixator represents a very adaptable means of stabilising fractures. Bone splinting is achieved using a frame to form a temporary exoskeleton attached to the bone by means of percutaneous fixation pins. It is not suitable for the treatment of all fractures. Some are most appropriately managed with internal fixation, some with an external fixator, and many may be managed equally well with either or with external coaptation. However, this technique provides a suitable and inexpensive means of treatment for a variety of fractures and constitues an invaluable addition to an orthopaedic armoury.

Note:

The author wishes to acknowledge the assistance of Mrs J. Cheshire with the preparation of the manuscript. Mr J. Conibear for the photography and Mesdames J. Hart and A. Nightingale for radiographic assistance.