[Historical aspects of external fixation and possibilities for the future developement]

External fixation is not such a novel method, but it is interesting to learn its history, countries in which it has developed and the time when it gained full expert acceptance in treating not only fractures but orthopedic disorders, inequalities, and articular arthrodeses. The beginnings of external fixation are associated to the name of Malgaigne, followed by the authors of Western European, German and American school of external fixation. In the U.S.A., this method was accepted as late as in 1950s; being accepted in Russia through Ilizarov. In our country, the method was accepted in 1950s, through the work of Prof. Bumbaireviae and Prof. Raduloviae, who are the founders of modem external fixation in our country.