CME OnDemand: 2022 AOFAS Annual Meeting-Ankle Temporizing External Fixation as a Risk for Sharp Exposure: A Common Occurrence

Ankle Temporizing External Fixation as a Risk for Sharp Exposure: A Common Occurrence

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Mike Swords discusses a study on ankle temporizing external fixation and its potential risk for sharp exposure. External fixation is commonly used for complex ankle and foot injuries before transfer to a surgeon or better-equipped institution. The study aimed to evaluate the frame constructs for sharp pin ends that could pose a risk to the healthcare team. The research analyzed patients with external fixation applied prior to transfer over a three-year period. Out of 39 patients, 16 had sharp pin ends, with two in the tibia pins and 14 in transcalcaneal pins. The study concludes that all external fixation pins should be cut in a way that results in blunt ends to prevent potential injuries.

Asset Subtitle

Michael P. Swords, DO, Jay Patel, DO, and Kevin Kane, DO

Keywords

Mike Swords

ankle temporizing external fixation

sharp exposure

frame constructs

sharp pin ends