Trauma Survivors Network - provided by ATS

Survive. Connect. Rebuild.

A Program of the ATS

Extremities

  1. Splint
  2. Cast
  3. External Fixator

An external fixation device may be used to keep fractured bones stabilized and in alignment. The device can be adjusted externally to ensure the bones remain in an optimal position during the healing process.

How is it made? Screws are placed into the bone above and below the fracture, and a device is attached to the screws from outside the skin, where it may be adjusted to realign the bone.

Illustration of an External Fixator

Adapted from the National Library of Medicine (http://medlineplus.gov).