• Franz Josef Seibert, Florian Fankhauser, Brian Elliott, Nikolaus Stockenhuber, and Gerolf Peicha.
• Department for Traumatology, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 7a, Graz A-8036, Austria. franz.seibert@kfunigraz.ac.at
• Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 2003 Jan 1;20(1):159-80.

AbstractExternal fixation as a modality is a versatile and minimally invasive stabilization option that should not be forgotten even as new and specially designed implants for nearly each bone become more fashionable. As a temporary traction device, the external fixator can help condition the soft tissues and, if closed reduction was sufficient, it can stay in place for definitive treatment. The external fixator can be used as an intraoperative distraction device and as a helpful tool for reduction, which can stay in place as a temporary immobilization. External fixation instead of plaster cast allows for better care of skin and soft tissues. External fixation also has its advantages as a minimally invasive external compression device in specific indications for arthrodesis, especially in infected cases.

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