Treatment of fractures of the Distal Radius with External Fixator

Huh, C Y; Yoon, J R; Ha, H S

Abstract

PURPOSE : Recently, intraarticular fractures or unstable fractures with severe comminution of the distal radius are increasing in younger ages, which are known to be difficult to treat. We designed this study to evaluate the clinical results and the prognosis of the external fixators for the treatment of the fractures of the distal radius. Material and Method : We reviewed 16 cases of the distal radius fractures, which were treated surgically with the external fixdtors since January 1995 to December 1997. We applied the external fixator with closed reduction and Kirschner-wire fixation in 8 cases, and in the rest of the cases we did minimal open reduction before the application of the exteranl fixator, because it was not enough to reduce the articular fragments in those cases with closed reduction For the analysis of the clinincal results, we used the Demerit point rating system, and for the analysis of the radiologic parameter, we measured radial height, radial inclination, and volar tilting in comparison with the uninjured side from the anteroposterior and the lateral X-ray films which were taken at preoperative, postoperative, and last follow-up period.
RESULTS
In clinical results by Demerit rating point system, 2 cases were excellent, 10 cases were good, 4 cases were fair, and none of the cases was poor. In radiologic results, the average of the radial height was 8.43mm, the average of the radial inclination was 17.68o, and the average of the volar tilting was 3.870.
CONCLUSION
: It is suggested that external fixator is one of the useful modalities in the treatment of the unstable fractures of the distal radius, and we can also improve the results of the intraarticular fractures by using the minimal open reduction technique.