Use of skin incisions in the application of halo skeletal fixator pins.
A halo skeletal fixator was studied prospectively in 51 patients using two different pin insertion techniques. One technique consisted of a stab incision prior to pin placement and the second technique used no incision. There was no difference in infection, loosening, or resultant scars between the two groups. Incision for halo pins may increase initial bleeding and seems unnecessary.
University of California San Diego Medical Center, Division of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation 92103.
M J
MJ
Botte
T P
TP
Byrne
S R
SR
Garfin
D001858:Bone Nails; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000209:etiology; D062109:Dermatologic Surgical Procedures; D006801:Humans; D009984:Orthopedic Fixation Devices; D013530:Surgical Wound Infection / Q000209:etiology