Browsing by Author "Hakamäki, Lasse"

Pilon fractures of the distal tibia are challenging to treat. The fracture is generally highly comminuted, intra-articular and combined with major soft tissue injury. Treatment is often initiated by placing a temporary external fixator to stabilize the ankle joint. However, there is little research concerning the mechanical properties of external fixators in the treatment of pilon fractures. The aim of this study was to compare four different proximal pin group assemblies and six whole frames of the Hoffmann® II External Fixation System to find the best ones. Each was measured for stiffness, force needed to reach 30 mm displacement and the amount of residual displacement. The results showed major differences between the setups and some of the best configurations could be found. Also, some general guidelines concerning frame structure could be presented.