Original article Results of Intra-Articular Fractures of the Distal Radius Treated with Simple Uniplaner External Fixator

Severely comminuted intra-articular fractures of distal radius are still challenging problem despite the varieties of modalities of treatment options. We report the result of a prospective study of thirty-five patients, who were treated by close reduction and simple single bar Uniplaner external fixator. The patients were followed for an average of nine months (ranges from six to 12 months). 20 patients had excellent result; 13 patients had good result and two patients had poor results. The results were calculated in term of pain, range of motion, power and radiological appearance. After nine months of postoperative period; the mean arc of motion (flexion and extension) was 80 per cent of that of normal side and average grip strength was 85 per cent of that of uninjured side. The articular step up was1.5 mm and radial length was restored to a mean of 10 mm. Complications were low and there was no loss of fixation of the pins. Regarding minor complications, there were seven pin tract infections, which were healed in due time; two superficial nerve injuries and one case of sympathetic dystrophy. Overall complication rate was 37 per cent. Close reduction and simple single bar Uniplaner external fixation by the principle of ligamentotaxis, can restore radiological parameters to nearly normal values; maintain reduction throughout the period of fracture healing and produce good to excellent result