Unilateral External Fixator Combined with Lateral Auxiliary Frame for Ultimate Treatment of Tibia and Fibula Shaft Fractures with Poor Soft Tissue Conditions

Figure 3

Schematic diagram of 9 configurations of unilateral external fixation guided by finite element analysis for tibia and fibula shaft fractures. (a) Classical configuration, all external fixation pins were located in the same plane, following the principle of “near-near, far-far” in the fracture site. (b) Reducing the distance between connecting rod to shafts. (c) Increasing distance between connecting rod to shafts. (d) Half-pins were placed away from the fracture end. (e) Half-pins were placed close to the fracture end. (f) Increase the number of half-pins on a single fracture segment. (g) Several half-pins are inserted at different angles. (h) A set of additional lateral auxiliary frame were inserted into the anterior tibia crest from anterior tibia. (i) A set of additional lateral auxiliary frame were penetrated through the Gerdy tubercle and the lateral malleolus.

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