External Device System

The External Device System combines a sturdy mechanical frame with an intramedullary support nail to deliver safe, budget-friendly limb lengthening. Daily adjustments occur outside the body using a simple key, while the internal nail preserves alignment so the external frame can come off sooner than with traditional Ilizarov-only setups.

How the Hybrid Structure Works

This method relies on two synchronized elements: a monolateral or circular external fixator that guides distraction, and a titanium nail inside the bone that takes over once the desired height is achieved. Because the nail remains after the fixator is removed, patients gain extra stability during consolidation without carrying the full external frame for an entire year.

Key Components

Understanding both the outer frame and the internal support explains why this system remains popular among patients who can tolerate an external device during the active lengthening period.

External Fixator:

The rigid frame attaches through pins and provides precise mechanical control. Patients rotate the adjustment knobs about 1 mm per day, guided by the medical team. Dressings and cleaning routines keep the pin sites healthy while swelling and muscle tightness are managed with on-site physiotherapy.

Intramedullary Stabilizing Nail:

A titanium nail is implanted during the same surgery. Once the target height is reached, surgeons lock the nail with screws so it carries the new length while the fixator is removed, allowing patients to wear normal clothing sooner.

On-Limb Fixator View:

This illustration highlights how the external frame sits outside the leg while stabilization screws connect to the intramedullary nail, making the daily adjustment path easy to visualize.

Treatment Timeline

 

Stage 1 – Implantation & Training:

The surgery places both the internal nail and external frame. Patients stay under FullStay Care in Istanbul, learning how to clean pin sites, perform adjustments, and start gentle physiotherapy.

Stage 2 – Daily Lengthening:

Over roughly 2–3 months, patients lengthen at 1 mm per day while receiving daily physio, dressing changes, and on-site X-rays. Once goals are met, the fixator is removed and consolidation continues with the internal nail alone.

Advantages and Considerations

Cost-Effective Option:

Mechanical hardware keeps implant costs low, making the External Device System the most budget-friendly pathway with FullStay Care.

Earlier Frame Removal:

Because the internal nail supports the bone, patients typically remove the external fixator after just 2–3 months instead of 9–12.

Robust Mechanical Control:

Daily manual adjustments are straightforward, giving both patient and surgeon high confidence in the distraction rate.

Visible External Frame:

Patients must be comfortable moving around with a fixator, wearing looser clothing, and adhering to meticulous pin-care routines.

Pin-Site Care:

Diligent cleaning and dressing changes are essential to minimize infection risk around the external pins.

Conclusion

The External Device System offers a reliable, budget-conscious solution for patients who can commit to the FullStay Care timeline. With strong physiotherapy support, daily monitoring, and earlier frame removal thanks to the internal nail, it balances practicality with solid medical outcomes.

External Device System compatible methods:

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