The application of wrist-spanning external fixators in the treatment of old distal radius fractures

Abstract

Objective To analyze the results of distal radius limited open reduction and trans-articular fixation with external fixators for treatment of old distal radius fractures.Methods From March 2006 to March2008,16 patients with 18 old distal radius fractures were treated with open reduction and trans-articular fixation with wrist spanning external fixators.Their average age was 52.6 years(29 to 72 years).There were 15 Colles fractures in 13 patients and 3 Smith fractures in 3 patients.The external fixation was used after distal radius fracture reduction and bone grafting for reduction maintenance and static immobilization.Results All the patients were followed up for 4 to 30 months(average 16 months).The time to achieve bone healing ranged from6 to 12 weeks(average 8.7 weeks).According to Cartland and Werley wrist scores,the functional results were rated as excellent in 11 cases,good in 4 cases and fair in 3 cases,with an overall 83.3% excellent and good rate.Conclusion Distal radius limited open reduction and trans-articular fixation with external fixators is an effective method to treat old distal radius fractures.This is a simple procedure with minimal soft tissue damage,which can facilitate early postoperative rehabilitation and promote bone healing. Key words: Fractures,bone; External fixators; Radius