Experience with a large-frame, disposable external fixator.

External fixation is a temporizing measure that has a long history in the treatment of fractures. Thirty-eight newly designed large-frame external fixators were applied for acute lower-limb fractures and pelvis injuries in a level I trauma center. In 75% of cases, the frames were used for first-stage skeletal stabilization, followed by revision to plates or nails 1 to 2 weeks later. The external fixators remained in place from 4 to 28 days (median, 8 days). The fixator is composed of a low-cost plastic resin and uses modular, disposable components. The montage requires only 2 varieties of clamp, monotube rods, and fixation pins already in-house. The device is lighter than conventional fixators yet equal in rigidity. Cost analysis performed by our institution demonstrated cost savings of 20% to 25% compared to conventional external fixation. The new device is packaged sterilely and does not require autoclaving before application. Patient acceptance of the device was good. There were no complications or disadvantages associated with the use of this lower-cost device. Specifically, there were no pin tract infections, no loss of fixation, and no loosening or disassembly of the devices.