What is the primary purpose of an external fixator in orthopedic trauma?

• A. To provide definitive, permanent fracture fixation.
• B. To temporarily stabilize fractures, control alignment and length, allow soft-tissue healing, and enable damage-control management.
• C. To replace internal fixation in all situations.
• D. To improve vascular supply to the fracture site through hardware redesign.

Answer: (B)