Clinical estimation of ilizarov fixator axial stiffness based on wire and half pin contributions

A key parameter in the mechanical environment created in distraction osteogenesis is the axial stiffness of the external fixator. Mechanical testing of the frames with wire and half pins has been used to estimate the stiffness contributions of wires based on the span length and of half pins based on the offset length. A summation of the wire and half pin contributions appears to represent a suitable estimate for the axial stiffness of frames composed of a mixture of wires and half pins. Using this estimate, clinicians can make informed decisions regarding frame construction, and it may be possible to investigate the rate of bone formation relative to axial frame stiffness in the clinical setting.