title: Reduction of treatment time in external ring fixation using the monofix device.
abstract: One of the disadvantages of the Ilizarov method is the long treatment time needed for extensive lengthening or complex deformity correction. To minimize the discomfort of the circular frame the authors have introduced a 'frame reduction' technique in which the ring frame is converted towards a unilateral fixator, the 'Monofix'. Both its efficacy and patient satisfaction encouraged the authors to apply this method on a routine basis since 1998 for lower and upper limb corrections. The technique is demonstrated, its indications and potential problems are discussed.
authors.affiliation: University Hospital Pellenberg, Belgium. ilizarov@uzleuven.be
authors.forename: Armand
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Laumen
authors.forename: Johan
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Lammens
authors.forename: Johan
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Vanlauwe
mesh_terms: D001852:Bone Lengthening / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D016267:External Fixators; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome