Ilizarov external fixation. Technical and anatomic considerations.

Abstract

The Ilizarov external fixator can be safely applied if the surgeon is alert to the "danger areas" where the transfixion wires might penetrate a neurovascular structure. The basic principle of frame assembly and application require that the wires are never bent to reach the support rings; instead, the Ilizarov hardware is used to build up to the wires from the rings. The wires are then tensioned axially.