FOOT & ANKLE Copyright © 1986 by the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society, Inc. External Fixation of the Foot and Ankle

The use of Hoffmann external fixation in the treatment of ankle and foot trauma in 26 patients is reviewed. There were 21 males and five females, ranging in age from 14 to 56 years. There were 22 fresh fractures and four ar-throdeses. Fourteen of the 22 injuries were open fractures. Eight of 22 involved foot joint disruptions. This form of treatment required a complete set of external fixation equipment, sound knowledge of foot and ankle anatomy, and technical skill in frame construction and application. This fixateur allowed three plane stabilization of complex fractures, mobilization of unaffected joints, and access to wounds for soft tissue care. Follow-up evaluations from 24 to 48 months demonstrated good clinical results. The fractures healed and soft tissue and joint function wer