Treating the Many Using a Few: A Novel Approach for the Application of External Fixators in Mass Casualties

AIM: The aim of this is to allow the use of unsterile kit (clamps and rods) in situations where the demand for external limb fixators exceeds the available sterile equipment. BACKGROUND: In view of the recent rise in violence and terrorist activity, we have to be prepared for situations causing major incidences. These can place a large strain on our operating theaters and the available surgical kit due to the potential number of casualties. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We propose a sterile dressing technique during the application of an external limb fixator that provides an adequate seal around the pin sites and allows the use of simply decontaminated external fixator parts. CONCLUSION: This technique prevents the intraoperative contamination of the clamps and connecting rods, which allow for a sterile barrier to minimize pin site infections. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Vris A, Al-Obaedi O, Vaghela KR, et al. Treating the Many Using a Few: A Novel Approach for the Application of External Fixators in Mass Casualties. Strategies Trauma Limb Reconstr 2019;14(2):92–93.