J Korean Orthop Assoc.  2004 Jun;39(3):258-264.

Treatment of Intra-articular Fractures of the Distal Radius using Wrist Arthroscopy

• Park MJ
• Ha SH

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to investigate the usefulness of wrist arthroscopy for treating intra-articular fractures of the distal radius. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-two patients with intra-articular fracture of the distal radius received arthroscopic s rgery. Fourteen patients with displaced intra-articular fractures were managed by arthroscopically assisted reduction and fixation. Three patients were treated with limited open reduction and fixation. We analysed the radiologic results, and measured the ranges of motion and grip strengths. Fuctional results were evaluated using the Modified Mayo Wrist Scoring System. The postoperative follow-up period averaged 16.8 months. RESULTS: All showed articular step-off of less than 1 mm on wrist X-rays taken at the final follow-up (mean 0.3 mm; range, 0-1 mm). The mean arc of range of motion was 89.6% of that on the uninjured side, and the mean grip strength was 87.3% of that of the uninjured side. The average Modified Wrist Score was 91.8 (range, 75-100). CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic-assisted surgery is an useful method that provides excellent results with few complications in the treatment of intra-articular fractures of the distal radius.

Keyword

Distal radius; Fracture; Arthroscopy

MeSH Terms

Arthroscopy*
Follow-Up Studies
Hand Strength
Humans
Intra-Articular Fractures*
Radius*
Range of Motion, Articular
Wrist*