We would caution against the insertion of pins close to large joints in the expanded and cancellous bone, as early loosening or unsatisfactory fixation has often followed. Loosening has likewise resulted from the accumulation of dried serum about the pins and therefore a daily cleaning with benzin or ether is imperative.
The virtues of the clamp have been chiefly its excellent fixation properties, its ease of application, and its extreme comfort. Removal of the pins has usually been less painful than the removal of the skin sutures. In no case has union been delayed and the early motion of the contiguous joints which is possible has induced prompt return of function. The method is not contra-indicated in compound and infected lesions, as the stabilization has proved beneficial, and the area of soft part straddled is left free for wound treatment.
The external clamp possesses obvious advantages over any buried material trespassing the area of repair and requiring operative removal.