Indications for the application of Wagner's method of external fixation across the knee joint

External fixation with Wagner's apparatus can, because of its mechanical properties, be employed for temporary immobilization of the knee joint. This method is especially suitable for patients for whom immobilization in plaster is problematic or disadvantageous. It can be applied to the following categories of patients: Patients with injuries to the bones or ligaments of the knee which are associated with wounds or injuries of the blood vessels or nerves; Patients with multiple injuries of the leg (e.g., fractures of the tibia and femur) and concomitant intra-articular knee injuries; Patients with a septic arthritis of the knee joint.