Treatment of Comminuted Intra-articular Fractures of Distal Radius by External Fixator

Abstract

Background: Treatment of comminuted intra-articular fractures of distal radius by external fixator is an important. Objective: The aim of study was to investigate the usefulness of external fixator as a treatment option for displaced comminuted intra-articular fractures of distal radius. Methodology: This case series was conducted in the Department of orthopaedic Surgery at Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College& Hospital, Dhaka during the period of November 2011 to July 2013. All the patients having comminuted intra-articular distal radial fractures were being treated with mini uniaxial external fixator under brachial plexus block. The average follow up was performed in about 6 month. Result: A total number of fifteen patients were enrolled for this study. The mean age with SD was 50.21±9.473. Patient outcomes were measured by modified Knirk and Jupiter score and were categorized as satisfactory and unsatisfactory groups. In this study satisfactory outcome was found in 86.0%. All fractures (100.0%) were united nicely. Few complications were encountered. Postoperative osteoarthritis was not found during follow up. Conclusion: The use of external fixator for treating the comminuted intra-articular distal radial fractures produces satisfactory result.

Assessment of outcome of distal radius inta-articular fractures using wrist-spanning mini-fixator in distraction

“…The benefits of external fixation over other methods are limited open incisions, early range of motion, and treatment of complex wounds. 2 Newer fixator designs include non bridging applications that allow early wrist motion, because it combines a minimally invasive procedure with reduction by ligamentotaxis. 3 The management of unstable distal radius fractures using the principle of ligamentotaxis through external fixation has evolved during recent times.…”