EXTERNAL FIXATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF USE

An external fixation system includes an upper fixation element including a semicircular geometry, and an intermediate fixation element including a circular geometry, in which the intermediate fixation element is releasably coupled with the upper fixation element. The system also includes a lower fixation element including a substantially U-shaped geometry terminating at a first end point and a second end point, in which the lower fixation element is releasably coupled with the intermediate fixation element, and an anterior fixation element including a semicircular geometry. The anterior fixation element is also fixedly coupled with the first and second end points of the lower fixation element. The system also may include at least one strut member that is releasably coupled with the intermediate fixation element and the lower fixation element. Also disclosed is a joint having a first component, a second component and an intermediate component positioned therebetween to allow for pivotable motion.