Abstract
A case history is presented involving management of a comminuted femur fracture with
the Hoffmann Monotube System and the “tower pin” augmentation used for external fixation.
This new method of external fixation provides all the advantages of external fixation
in comparison with internal fixation for cases of critically injured patients or injuries
with severe soft tissue damage. By utilizing the “tower pin” augmentation the fracture
is stable in all planes. Use of the device as an available alternative is advocated
based on this preliminary experience. We recommend the conversion from external fixation
to intramedullary nailing after improvement of the soft tissue injury or stabilization
of the patient.
Key words
Tower pin - Secondary intramedullary nailing - Gunshot wound
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N. Schettler M.D.
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Louisville
530 South Jackson Street
Louisville, KY 40202 · USA
Phone: +15 02/8 52-53 19
Fax: +15 02/8 52-72 27
