From AAOS: Zimmer Launches New Trauma System

During this year’s annual meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, held March 24-28, in Las Vegas, Nev., Zimmer Holdings Inc. launching a new external fixation system for trauma patients.

Available in both small (6 millimeter) and large (11 millimeter) systems, the XtraFix external fixation system is a modular system that offers advances in design technology and materials, according to Zimmer officials.  The system allows surgeons to eliminate steps, as well as bars and clamps from the external fixation process, resulting in saved time, costs and effort.

“The design philosophy of the XtraFix external fixation system is based on increasing efficiency above all else,” said Nate Folkert, president, Zimmer Trauma. “Each component of the XtraFix system incorporates only the most useful features from the many different systems currently on the market and combines them into one time-saving and highly efficient device. It enables surgeons to build rigid external constructs using fewer components in less time.”

The recently released small system gives surgeons the ability to connect small and large systems with a single clamp. This transitional feature enables surgeons to accommodate small extremity fractures in larger constructs. In addition, the XtraFix 3-D bar/pin-to-bar/pin design means pins can be placed where the fracture dictates, not the fixator, and flexible configurations means constructs require fewer components.

“With superior components and highly functional design, the XtraFix external fixation system offers surgeons unsurpassed efficiency and significant flexibility when it comes to construct options and possibilities,” said Folkert.

Warsaw, Ind.-based Zimmer makes orthopedic reconstructive, spinal and trauma devices, dental implants, and related surgical products.