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History of external skeletal fixation.
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Pullman.
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Small Animal Practice
|January 1, 1992
Summary
External skeletal fixation, a method for bone fracture treatment, has evolved significantly since its 1840 inception. Modern advancements have led to its current widespread acceptance in orthopedic surgery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
- Trauma Care
Background:
- The historical development of external skeletal fixation dates back to the mid-19th century.
- Early devices like the Malgaigne spike and Parkhill clamp laid the groundwork for modern techniques.
- Significant progress occurred in the 1920s with innovations in pin and screw fixation for bone fragments.
Observation:
- The Stader splint, introduced during World War II, was a key development enabling both reduction and fixation.
- The Kirschner-Ehmer splint emerged in veterinary medicine as a modification of human splints.
- A decline in popularity during the 1950s was attributed to application errors.
Findings:
- Improvements in fixator design and surgical expertise have driven the resurgence and acceptance of external fixation.
- The evolution reflects a continuous effort to enhance bone fracture management.
- Current methods benefit from over a century of innovation and refinement.
Implications:
- Enhanced understanding of biomechanics and materials science has improved external fixator efficacy.
- The technique offers a viable solution for complex fractures and limb reconstruction.
- Continued research promises further advancements in patient outcomes and surgical procedures.