Rammeutstyr

Rammeutstyr refers to the specialized equipment used in the field of veterinary orthopedics for the external fixation of fractures. This system involves a rigid frame applied to the outside of a limb, connected to the fractured bone segments by pins or screws that penetrate the skin and bone. The primary purpose of rammeutstyr is to stabilize the fractured bone, allowing it to heal in proper alignment without the need for internal implants like plates or screws.

The components of rammeutstyr typically include connecting bars, clamps, and transfixing pins or screws. The pins are inserted into the bone fragments above and below the fracture site. These pins are then attached to the external frame using clamps and connecting bars. This allows for precise adjustment of the frame, enabling the surgeon to reduce the fracture (align the bone fragments) and maintain that alignment during the healing process.

One of the advantages of using rammeutstyr is its ability to provide stable fixation for complex fractures, including those with significant comminution (multiple fragments) or open fractures (where the bone has broken through the skin). It can also be adjusted after surgery if the alignment of the fracture changes. However, potential drawbacks include the risk of pin tract infection, skin irritation, and the need for careful management and monitoring by the owner. Rammeutstyr is often used in companion animals like dogs and cats, and sometimes in larger animals, to treat a variety of limb fractures. The duration of external fixation varies depending on the type of fracture and the animal's healing capacity.