Principles of monolateral external fixation

Monolateral external fixation is a system for the stabilization, reduction, and manipulation of bone segments by means of bone anchorage consisting of pins fastened to an external frame. Monolateral external fixators in their various forms have the advantage that they allow the use of half-pins (bicortical pins that do not penetrate both sides of the soft tissue envelope), thereby avoiding major damage to the neurovascular structures contralateral to the insertion point. The simple structure of monolateral systems permits rapid application and simplified preoperative planning, both of which are features particularly appreciated in traumatology.