The basic goal of fracture fixation is to stabilize the fractured bone, to enable fast healing of the injured bone, and to return early mobility and full function of the injured extremity.

External fixation is a technique used to help heal severely broken bones. This type of orthopedic treatment involves securing the fracture with a specialized device called a fixator, which is external to the body. Using special bone screws (commonly called pins) that pass through the skin and muscle, the fixator is connected to the damaged bone to keep it in proper alignment as it heals.

What is an external fixator used for?

An external fixation device may be used to keep fractured bones stabilized and in alignment. The device can be adjusted externally to ensure the bones remain in an optimal position during the healing process. This device is commonly used in children and when the skin over the fracture has been damaged.

What are the types of external fixator?

There are three basic types of external fixators: standard uniplanar fixator, ring fixator, and hybrid fixator.

The numerous devices used for internal fixation are roughly divided into a few major categories: wires, pins and screws, plates, and intramedullary nails or rods.

Staples and clamps are also used occasionally for osteotomy or fracture fixation. Autogenous bone grafts, allografts, and bone graft substitutes are frequently used for the treatment of bone defects of various causes. For infected fractures as well as for treatment of bone infections, antibiotic beads are frequently used.

Dynamic Axial Proximal Femoral Fragment External Fixator: A Comprehensive Overview

Hip fractures are a common orthopedic problem, particularly in elderly individuals. These fractures can cause significant morbidity and mortality, and their management is often complex. One of the techniques used to manage hip fractures is the dynamic axial proximal femoral fragment external fixator (DAPFFEF). In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of DAPFFEF, including its indications, technique, complications, and outcomes.

Introduction

Hip fractures are a major public health problem, with an estimated 1.6 million cases occurring worldwide every year. These fractures are associated with high morbidity and mortality, particularly in elderly patients. The management of hip fractures is often complex, and various surgical techniques are used to manage them. One of these techniques is the dynamic axial proximal femoral fragment external fixator (DAPFFEF).

Anatomy of the Hip

Before discussing DAPFFEF, it is important to understand the anatomy of the hip. The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint, consisting of the acetabulum of the pelvis and the femoral head. The femoral neck connects the femoral head to the femoral shaft. The proximal femur is the part of the femur that is closest to the hip joint.

What is a Dynamic Axial Proximal Femoral Fragment External Fixator?

A dynamic axial proximal femoral fragment external fixator (DAPFFEF) is a device used to stabilize fractures of the proximal femur. The device consists of a set of pins or screws that are inserted into the proximal femur and are connected to an external frame. The frame provides stability to the fractured bone, allowing it to heal.

Indications for DAPFFEF

DAPFFEF is used to treat fractures of the proximal femur, including subcapital fractures, intertrochanteric fractures, and subtrochanteric fractures. It is also used to treat non-unions and malunions of the proximal femur.

Technique of DAPFFEF

The technique of DAPFFEF involves inserting pins or screws into the proximal femur, which are then connected to an external frame. The pins or screws are inserted in a way that allows them to act as a lever arm, providing dynamic compression to the fractured bone. The frame is adjusted to achieve the desired level of compression.

Advantages of DAPFFEF

The advantages of DAPFFEF include its ability to provide stable fixation of the proximal femur, its ability to provide dynamic compression to the fractured bone, and its ability to allow early weight-bearing. These factors can lead to improved outcomes and faster recovery times for patients.

Complications of DAPFFEF

Complications of DAPFFEF include pin tract infections, non-union, malunion, loss of reduction, and implant failure. These complications can be managed with appropriate treatment, including antibiotics, revision surgery, and removal of the fixator.

Outcomes of DAPFFEF

The outcomes of DAPFFEF have been studied in several clinical trials. These trials have shown that DAPFFEF can provide stable fixation of the proximal femur, allowing early weight-bearing and improved outcomes for patients.

Conclusion

Dynamic axial proximal femoral fragment external fixator (DAPFFEF) is a surgical technique used to stabilize fractures of the proximal femur. It provides stable fixation and dynamic compression to the fractured bone, allowing early weight-bearing and improved outcomes for patients. Complications can occur, but they can be managed with appropriate treatment.