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Updated: May 13, 2026
10:09
Adjustable Stiffness, External Fixator for the Rat Femur Osteotomy and Segmental Bone Defect Models
Published on: October 9, 2014
Hypertension as a complication of circular external fixators
Maroria D Oroko1, Farokh D Wadia, Ruth Farrell
1University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics. Part B
|February 28, 2013
Summary
Hypertension is a potential complication of circular external fixation. This study found a 12.2% incidence, with some cases requiring treatment for severe symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Cardiovascular Medicine
Background:
- Circular external fixation is a surgical technique used in limb reconstruction.
- Hypertension is not commonly recognized as a complication of this procedure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of hypertension after circular external fixation.
- To highlight the importance of monitoring blood pressure in patients undergoing this procedure.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 57 patients undergoing circular external fixation between January 2006 and May 2010.
- Hypertension defined by at least three blood pressure readings.
- Analysis of 41 qualifying patients.
Main Results:
- Five out of 41 qualifying patients (12.2%) developed hypertension.
- Three patients experienced sustained hypertension during the fixation period.
- Two patients required treatment for visual symptoms and left ventricular hypertrophy due to hypertension.
Conclusions:
- Hypertension is an unrecognized complication of circular external fixation.
- Limb reconstruction surgeons should monitor for and promptly treat hypertension post-procedure.
- Early detection and management are crucial for preventing severe sequelae.
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