Hydroxyapatite-coated Schanz pins in external fixators used for distraction osteogenesis: a randomized, controlled trial

46 patients undergoing segmental transport or lengthening of the tibia were randomized to receive either standard titanium Schanz pins or hydroxyapatite-coated stainless-steel Schanz pins. The fixators were used for an average of 38 weeks. Patients were monitored for pin loosening and infection, digitized radiographs were assessed for bone resorption around all pins, and the torque required to extract the pins was measured. The group with the coated pins showed significantly lower rates of infection and loosening, as well as improved fixation.