Application Of Uniplane/Multiplane External Fixation System

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What is Application of Uniplane/Multiplane External Fixation System: Overview, Benefits, and Expected Results

Definition & Overview

External fixation systems are devices made of metal rods, wires, and pins designed to provide stability to fractured leg bones. There are several types, but the most common are uni plane and multiplane systems.

The human body has an amazing ability to heal itself, especially with regard to fractured bones. In fact, all that is needed is to return a displaced bone into its original position, stabilize it, and wait for the bone to heal itself.

Uni plane and multiplane external fixation systems play an important role in providing stability to the area while the bones heal. Such systems ensure that the displaced sections of bone are kept in place at all times.

The concept is simple, yet effective. Metal pins and wires are attached to certain areas of the bone away from the actual fracture. The other ends of pins are then attached to a metal rod that prevents the bones from moving in any direction. Once the fracture has sufficiently healed, the pins and rods can be removed.

Even though the pins are attached to the bone and protrude from the skin, surgeons ensure that there is a minimal amount of blood loss or tissue damage during the procedure and all throughout the healing process.

However, the procedure does have its disadvantages; it can result in significantly reduced mobility, and there’s a significant risk of infection while the pins are attached. Also, although they are effective in many types of bone fractures, they may not be the best choice for certain fractures as they may fail to provide adequate stability.

External fixators are usually used for tibia (shin bone) and distal radius fractures. The distal radius is one of the ten bones that make up the wrists and the most likely to be fractured in a wrist injury. The systems are not normally used for fractures of the femur (thighbone), humerus (bone from elbow to shoulder), and the forearms.

Who Should Undergo & Expected Results

As mentioned earlier, external fixation systems are only used to stabilize fractures on certain types of bones, such as the tibia and distal radius. Patients with the following types of injuries are good candidates for the procedure:

• Patients with open fractures (injury that damages the bone, skin, and other tissues leaving the bone exposed)
• Patients with closed fractures (injury that damages the bone but not the skin and other tissues)
• Patients with severe fractures that include the joints
• Patients that need to undergo leg lengthening procedures

The bone healing process can take several months to over a year depending on the type and extent of the fracture. The patient’s age can also be a factor. It’s a known fact that children’s bones heal faster than adults.

It is also important to understand the healing process. After the fracture has occurred, blood will clot almost instantly at the exact location. At the same time, the immune system begins to remove any damaged cells from the area.

After a few weeks, the blood clot will begin to form into a substance called callus. The callus will in time form new bone, which is why it is imperative that fractured bones are returned to their original position shortly after the fracture occurs.

The callus is soft and unstable before it forms into bone. During this time, the fractured bones must be stable, which is why external fixation systems are affixed to the bones.

Once the callus has formed into a new bone, the fixation systems can be removed as the fracture would have had completely healed.

How Does the Procedure Work?

Prior to attaching a uni plane or multiplane external fixation system, doctors will take an image of the fractured bone using an x-ray. The doctors will then return the bones to their original positions, which may be done with or without an anesthetic.

The doctors will then study the images and determine the areas where the pins of the fixator can be attached. The patient will be given a general anesthetic prior to the procedure.

The surgeon will then use a drill to open a hole in the bone where the pins can be screwed into. On the other end of the pins, the rod will be attached and secured. The number of pins and rods used in the procedure will depend on the fracture. Multiple fractures may require several pins and rods, also referred to as multiplane external fixators.

The external rods are kept as close to the skin as possible, but should also allow access to open wounds for treatment. Moreover, the distance of rods from the skin must allow for any swelling that may occur in the area. If needed, the rods may be adjusted should more or less clearance be required.

Possible Risks and Complications

Even though external fixation systems are highly effective, there are still risks involved and a possibility that a complication may develop. One of the most common problems with this type of fixation system is that it may not provide sufficient stability to the bones.

There is also a risk of infections developing at the area where the pins are located. Such infections are referred to as pin tract infections. As such, the area needs to be monitored on a regular basis to look for signs of infection so it can be promptly treated.

References:

• Eben A. Carroll MD, L. Andrew Coleman MD; “External Fixation and Temporary Stabilization of Femoral and Tibial Trauma”; http://www.wheelessonline.com/userfiles/20-1-13.pdf
• External Fixation article on Wikipedia; https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Externalfixation

  Bone healing article on Wikipedia; https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bonehealing

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**Question & Answer on Application⁤ of Uniplane/Multiplane External Fixation System**



**What is an Exofixation Device?**



An exofixation device is a‍ medical implant used to stabilize and align bones‌ from outside the body. External fixation systems typically consist of ‌pins or ⁢screws inserted into the bone and connected to⁢ a⁤ frame to maintain ​bone alignment.



**What are Uniplane and Multiplane External Fixation Systems?**



External⁤ fixation systems are classified based on ⁢the plane ⁢of motion they allow:



* **Uniplane:** Allow movement in one plane‌ (e.g., sagittal)

* **Multiplane:** Allow movement in multiple‍ planes (e.g., sagittal, coronal, axial)



**Applications of Uniplane External Fixation Systems**



Uniplane⁣ external fixation systems are commonly used in:



* Fractures in one plane (e.g., tibial plateau fractures)

* Arthrodesis procedures (e.g., foot fusion)

* Joint dislocation repair



**Applications of Multiplane External Fixation Systems**



Multiplane external fixation systems ​are‌ preferred in:



* Complex fractures ⁢requiring multiplanar alignment

* Pelvic and acetabular fractures

* Correction of limb ⁢deformities

* Soft tissue ‌coverage procedures



**Factors to Consider When Choosing​ Between Uniplane and Multiplane Systems**



* **Fracture type and severity:** Uniplane systems are sufficient for ​fractures in a single plane, while multiplane systems are needed for more​ complex fractures.

*‌ **Desired range of motion:** Uniplane systems restrict motion to a specific plane, while ⁢multiplane⁤ systems allow for more freedom⁢ of movement.

* **Patient compliance:** Multiplane systems can be more challenging to maintain and⁢ require stricter adherence to patient instructions.

* **Cost and​ availability:** ‍Uniplane systems are typically less expensive‍ and more readily available than multiplane systems.



**Advantages of Uniplane/Multiplane‌ External Fixation⁢ Systems**



* ​Non-invasive compared to internal fixation

* Allows for early mobilization and weight-bearing

* Facilitates ‍distraction osteogenesis

* Provides stability and‌ alignment correction

* Can be adjusted as needed



**Conclusion**



Uniplane and multiplane external fixation systems serve distinct purposes in‌ orthopedic surgery. The choice of system depends on the nature of the fracture, the desired range of motion, and the patient’s specific needs. Both systems offer effective methods for stabilizing and aligning bones, promoting⁢ healing, and restoring ‍function.



**Relevant Keywords:**



* External fixation

* Uniplane

* ⁤Multiplane

* Bone fracture

* Bone stabilization

* Limb lengthening

* Arthrodesis

* Distraction osteogenesis

* Orthopedic ⁣surgery