[Controlled tension and tension adjustment of the external fixator using a dynamometer (author's transl)]

Bone fractures treated with an external fixator tend to heal more slowly than with an internal fixator, since the tension of the fixator gradually relaxes and this decrease in pressure is not counteracted in any way. A dynamometer makes possible an exact measurement of effective compressive forces and an adjustment of the tension of the fixator. A special feature of the apparatus is an elastic metal ring. The apparatus is mounted on the free ends of both tubes of the fixator for measuring and adjusting the tension. This should be done once a week. Supported fractures are put under an axial compression of 50 kp. In the case of comminuted and defect fractures, and axial compression of 5 kp should be begun after 5 weeks, and this dosage should be increased every week.