External fixation in child traumatology

The authors present their experience of Hoffmann® external fixation in pediatric traumatology. Fractures of the lower limb are the most frequent (47 tibias, 13 femurs); a few fractures involved the upper extremity. The Hoffmann device constituted the complete treatment, using a light configuration frame in order to obtain elastic fixation and periosteal healing. Pin reactions are more frequent where the pin tract penetrates large soft tissue structures, as at the proximal femur. Only one refracture occurred after healing. Transient impairment of range of motion may be expected. Use of the Hoffmann fixator is recommended in children with open fractures or fractures associated with soft tissue lesions, in children with head injury with resultant increased motor tone, and in polytrauma patients to facilitate patient care and transport for reassessment and therapeutic procedures.