[Use of upper limb external fixation with motion capacity. Anatomical considerations].

The use of external fixation in the upper limb requires detailed anatomical knowledge. The centre of rotation in the elbow joint has to be understood and the bony landmarks have to be identified. The joint mechanics and the mechanics of the external fixation device have to be collinear in a wide range of the natural motion capacity. Insertion of humeral and ulnar pins considering the specific anatomy is described and post-operative diagnostic aspects are illustrated.