External fixation techniques for plastic and reconstructive surgery of the diabetic foot

Abstract

Wound healing in high-risk patients with diabetes is often lengthy and fraught with complications. Techniques in plastic and reconstructive surgery of the diabetic foot continue to develop as a result of advances in external fixation. This article highlights the surgical aspect of the diabetic foot with an emphasis on the indications, advantages, technical pearls, and complications with use of external fixation as an adjunct to plastic and reconstructive surgery of the diabetic foot.