Retrospectively, results of 64 leg open fractures (in 63 patients) treated by locally-made external fixators from April 1985 to April 1995 were examined. The distribution of these fractures according to Gustilo-Anderson classification was as follows: 15 fractures of degree II, 32 of IIIA, 11 of IIIB and 6 of IIIC. Mean age of patients age at the time of operation was 31 (range 18-63). Motobike traffic accident accounted for 85% of fractures. Skin graft, flaf surgery and operation were used. The follow-up mean time (of 64 legs) was 25 months (range 2-80 months). The mean duration of wearing external fixators was 22 weeks. 50 patients needed casting for average 6 weeks. In the Vietnamese setting, with approriate indications, well-performed debridement of wound, and closed postoperative follow-up, locally-made external fixators can be used and these may satisfactorily respond to the requirements of treatment for leg open fractures