I have a fixator that was used to distract my 1st metatarsal 17mm. stopped lengthening 5 weeks ago. 1 of the 4 pins was removed (infection). will the fixator be of use when i go weight bearing with it?

Fixator: Yes, still should be ok. Check with your surgeon.

Internal Fixators: Read===>http://intl-radiographics.Rsna.Org/content/23/6/1569.Full. In general, yes, but with the removal of 1 of the 4 pins due to an infection, it is complicated. Your orthopedist is in the best position to advise you on return to weight bearing, since he has your inter current x-rays and is in the best position to evaluate the status of the infection and the bone integrity.

Yes it should: As long as you still have a pin on either side of the distraction site you should be okay - as long as it is not loose. The pins may start to get loose as you walk on it, especially since you already had a problem with one of them. I assume you are forming bone at the distraction site? You should start with protected weight bearing with a cast boot, and gradually transition out of it. Go slow.

Fixator metatarsal: While the fixator has lost strength because the pin was removed, it will still help to maintain position while you begin gradual transition to weightbearing. Your physician should be able to tell you how much weight to place on the foot depending on the type of fixator and size of pins that were used.