[Initial experiences with the Ilisarov method on the hand bones].

From 1 July 1991 to 1 July 1992, 23 patients were treated using an Ilisarov distraction apparatus. The apparatus was used for callus distraction in 13 patients, and for closed fracture treatment, for generating longitudinal pressure in the treatment of fractures, for corrective osteotomy and for soft tissue distraction in 10 patients. Callus distraction in the hand has advantages over conventional techniques. Furthermore, the Ilisarov technique has its merits in certain fractures of the hand.