Shoulder arthrodesis using an external fixator

Description: The major problem with arthrodesis of the shoulder has been a high incidence of nonunion and the need for prolonged external splintage. The development of interna! fixation with the dynamic compression plate has resulted in a union rate of 100%. However, patients who are thin have poor subcutaneous tissue and are not good candidates for this method of treatment because of the possibility of erosion of the metal through the thin tissues. In order to avoid the use of a shoulder spica for three months, we have, in selected cases, used the Hoffmann external fixator as described by Nielsen (1986) combined with internal fixation with two 6.5 mm cance!lous screws.
Shoulder arthrodesis using an external fixator. Kocialkowski A, Wallace WA. J Bone Joint Surg Br. 1991 Jan;73(1):180-1