BackgroundThe objective of the study was to compare the efficacy of external fixation and volar plating on the functional parameter of displaced intra-articular (Cooney’s type IV) distal end radius fractures using the Green and O’Brien scoring system.Materials and methodsThis prospective randomized study comprised 68 patients treated with external fixation and 42 patients treated with volar locking plates. The patients were followed up at 6 months and 1 year after surgery. The assessment of pain, range of motion, grip strength and activity were assessed at each follow-up visit and scored according to the Green and O’Brien scoring system.ResultsAt 1 year after surgery, we observed that external fixation showed significantly better results than volar locking plates using the Green and O’Brien scores for range of motion (22.0 ± 4.77 vs 19.89 ± 5.05), grip strength (19.91 ± 5.4 vs 16.89 ± 4.4) and final outcome (87.36 ± 11.62 vs 81.55 ± 11.32). No difference was found in pain and activity between these two groups of patients. Patients aged <50 years treated with external fixation showed excellent results (final score (91.57 ± 9.01) at 1 year follow-up.ConclusionExternal fixation showed superiority over volar locked plating after 1 year of surgery.Level of evidenceIV.

Diabetes and smoking were independent risk factors for SSIs. Therefore, it is recommended to tightly regulate blood glucose levels and stop smoking to reduce the SSIs.

The present study showed a high prevalence of low BMD in thalassemia, suggesting that they should be targeted for DXA screening and osteoporosis prevention before permanent end organ bone damage occurs. The VDR genotyping can be used as additional test in individuals who are susceptible to osteoporosis so that early preventive measurements can be taken.

Premarital screening in extended family members, followed by prenatal diagnosis is acceptable and the most effective strategy for control of thalassemia in developing countries like India.

Species-level identification of Candidaand their antifungal sensitivity testing should be performed to achieve better clinical results.