An external fixation system and method for realigning, compressing or distracting broken bones has a planar ring element with an adjustable device having a body releasably mounted on the ring element. The adjustable device includes a first member for movement in a direction generally perpendicular to the ring element. A second member is pivotally connected to the first member for angular movement with respect to the ring. A third member is mounted on the second member for movement in a direction parallel to the second member and with respect to a circumference of the planar ring element. The method includes inserting k-wires into bone and affixing the k-wires to the ring element and affixing the k-wires to an adjustable device. The pieces of bone are realigned, compressed or distracted by adjusting at least one of a first and second members forming the device.
