Use of the AO/ASIF external fixator in children

Sixteen children with 20 fractures were treated with the AO/ASIF tubular fixator (Synthes, Ltd., Paoli, PA). Most of the fractures were open, but the fixator was also used in closed fractures in children with head injuries or other forms of trauma. There were 10 fractures of the tibia, 5 of the femur, 3 of the pelvis, and 2 involving the humerus. Average follow-up was 26 months, with the fixators in place for an average of 7 weeks. Fracture union occurred after an average of 16 weeks. This system is easier to apply, less complicated, and lighter than other types of fixators.