title: Biomechanical properties and design considerations in upper extremity external fixation.
abstract: External fixation is an excellent technique for the osteosynthesis of fractures affecting the upper extremity. The rational use of the technique is based on sound principles of biology and biomechanics. Good pin design and application techniques are among the important factors for successful outcome. These factors are discussed in this article along with the advantages of external fixation.
authors.affiliation: Service d'Orthopédie-Traumatologie, Cliniques Universitaires de Bruxelles, Hôpital Erasme, Belgium.
authors.forename: F A
authors.initials: FA
authors.lastname: Schuind
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Burny
authors.forename: E Y
authors.initials: EY
authors.lastname: Chao
mesh_terms: D001134:Arm Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D001858:Bone Nails; D004867:Equipment Design; D016267:External Fixators / Q000145:classification*; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D011312:Pressure