Open AccessExternal fixation for intra-articular fractures of the distal radius
Author(s) -
I. Jakim,
H. S. Pieterse,
M. B. E. Sweet
Publication year - 1991
Publication title -
journal of bone and joint surgery. british volume/the journal of bone and joint surgery. british volume
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 0968-7300
pISSN - 0301-620X
DOI - 10.1302/0301-620x.73b2.2005161
Subject(s) - medicine , radiological weapon , external fixation , external fixator , surgery , intra articular fracture , reduction (mathematics) , soft tissue , radius , fixation (population genetics) , functional impairment , orthodontics , internal fixation , population , mathematics , computer security , computer science , geometry , environmental health
In a prospective study of 132 patients with an average age of 35 years, unstable intra-articular fractures of the distal radius were treated by external fixator. Only 15 cases required limited open reduction. Follow-up was for a mean of 42 months. There were few complications and 83% of patients had good or excellent results. There was a statistically significant correlation between the severity of the fracture and the clinical outcome, irrespective of radiological restoration. Articular and soft-tissue damage following violent compressive forces may lead to a degree of functional impairment.