Investigation of the Mechanical Rigidity of First

The Extra cortical Clamp Device (ECD) is a novel fixation element designed for use in external fixation assemblies. Unlike standard transosseous fixation elements such as fine wires or the Schanz screw, the ECD avoids the intramedullary canal by obtaining capture of the bone segment external to the periosteal surface of diaphyseal bone. The prime advantage of this is to avoid disruption of, and to reduce the risk of introduction of infection into the prosthetic bed and prevent component loosening. Furthermore, whilst transosseous fixation can be performed in the presence of endostea prostheses, this typically requires predominantly cortical fixation with significant heat generation, and if the transosseous element does penetrate the intramedullary canal, fretting wear debris can be generated. The main disadvantage of the ECD is the increased size of the skin incision and thus the potential to act as a larger conduit to bacterial penetration of the extraosseous space.