A User-Friendly Method of Pin Site Management for External Fixators

Abstract

Pin tract inflammation and/or infection are common with the use of external fixation devices. Pin sites need to be managed to help prevent complications. There are a variety of regimens proposed for pin care in the literature. The authors present an efficient and simplified approach for addressing pin care protocol using cord locks with the use of compression sponges for external fixation devices. This method obviates the need for extensive bandaging and makes pin care easy for the patient to carry out. A brief review of the current evidence on pin care is presented, and an evidence-based pin care protocol is presented. © 2011, SAGE Publications. All rights reserved.