[Epiphyseal fixation with an external fixator. Biomechanical and clinical study]

Fifty one fractures of an epiphysis were treated by fixation using a new external fixator. The stability of the fixation was compared with that obtained by other types of fixator. The basis of the technique was the insertion of five pins into the epiphysis and of a series of pins in the diaphysis. Fixation between the epiphyseal and diaphyseal pins was achieved by three bars. The results obtained in 38 cases, half of them being at the proximal end of the tibia were analysed and were found to be encouraging. Only three had to be grafted secondarily. There was a low number of mal-unions. The main advantage of this method was to allow early mobilisation of the joint. The risk of sepsis did not give rise to concern provided that the rods do not cross the joint.