A configuration for the Ilizarov external fixator with six distractors and 12 ball joints in the form of a hexapod was developed. The system allows for six degrees of freedom bone fragment displacement by controlling the distractors. Using this assembly, universal three-dimensional corrections or reductions are possible without the need for complicated joint mechanisms. The device was used in 16 patients: five had displaced tibial fractures with severe soft tissue damage, 10 had deformities or pseudarthroses subsequent to treatment of tibial fractures, and one had an axis deviation in the course of tibial lengthening. Translational (to 40 mm) and rotational deformities (to 33 degrees) were corrected. Final radiographic examinations after the correction procedure was complete showed median residual deformities of 3.5 mm (range, 0-5 mm) and 1 degree (range, 0 degree-4 degrees) in the anteroposterior projection and of 1.5 mm (range, 0-6 mm) and less than 1 degree (range, 0 degree-9 degrees) in the lateral projection. The construction is a useful and important addition to the Ilizarov fixator system. As a bone fixation device it is unique in that its optimal use depends on the availability of computer software.
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