Dermal traction on the Ilizarov frame.
We report a technique of skin traction, which harnesses the biological and mechanical properties of skin. We have used this technique in open fractures to close or reduce the size of the wound, thereby avoiding the use of split skin grafts or free flaps and their resultant additional morbidity. This report summarises our early experience with this technique in seven patients. We describe the technique and the results so far.
Topliss
Claire
C
Department of Orthopaedics, University of Bristol, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol BS2 8HW, UK. toplisscj@hotmail.com
Jackson
Mark
M
Atkins
Roger M
RM
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D062109:Dermatologic Surgical Procedures; D005260:Female; D005597:Fractures, Open / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D018889:Ilizarov Technique / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012867:Skin / Q000503:physiopathology; D013978:Tibial Fractures / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D014143:Traction / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014945:Wound Healing / Q000502:physiology