The Use of the Vidal-Adrey External Fixation System*

A total of 23 infected or previously infected non-unions were treated by the Vidal-Adrey modification of the Hoffmann apparatus. The external fixators were applied after decortication and bone grafting either immediately in cases with no evidence of infection or later in cases of draining, infected wounds. The average healing time for these non-unions, that is time when no external support was required, was 12 months after the initial application of the Vidal-Adrey external fixators. The results were considered good or acceptable in 21 of 23 cases. Union occurred in 21, although union did not necessarily mean a good result overall when all other factors (shortening, etc.) were considered. This fixation device, when correctly applied and in conjuction with adequate debridement and bone grafting is an excellent method for the treatment of severe non-unions where infection is or was a problem.