Limb reconstruction after high energy trauma

Limb reconstruction techniques rely on stable external fixation to provide early limb function after major long bone injury. Bone may be generated by callus distraction techniques and internal techniques of moving bone segments used to fill bone defects. Soft tissue defects may be treated by acute shortening, although skin defects will also close spontaneously during bone transport as the leading edge of bone is covered with granulation tissue. External fixation is also used to cross joints permitting rest and repair of the joint. Hinges placed within the bars of the fixation frame may be used to correct deformities in the bone and soft tissue contractures using closed distraction techniques. These techniques are appropriate to metaphyseal fractures and diaphyseal fractures with bone loss. A major advantage is the lack of donor site morbidity, associated with skin flaps and large bone grafts. Acceptance of these techniques is growing whilst the methodology continues to improve. In more complicated cases, specialist training and dedicated hospital units with multidisciplinary support is desirable.