Corrective osteotomy is an effective method of treating distal radius malunions with good long-term functional results

IntroductionMalunion occurs in approximately 23% of non-operatively treated and 11% of operatively treated distal radius fractures. The decision whether to correct a malunion is primarily based on functional impairment and wrist pain. The purpose of this study was to assess the long-term functional outcomes of corrective osteotomies for symptomatic malunited distal radius fractures.MethodsAll consecutive corrective osteotomies of the distal radius performed in one centre between January 2009 and January 2016 were included. The primary outcome was the functional outcome assessed with the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) score. Secondary outcomes were range of motion, grip strength, pain as indicated on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) before and after corrective osteotomy, radiological parameters, time to union and complications. Additionally, we aimed to determine if there were any difference in graft versus no graft usage.ResultsA total of 48 patients were included. The median age was 54.5 years (IQR 39–66) and 71% was female. The median time to follow-up was 27 months. The median DASH and PRWE score were respectively 10.0 (IQR 5.8–23.3) and 18.5. (6.5–37.0). Except for pronation and supination, range of motion and grip strength of the injured wrist were significantly less compared to the uninjured side. Palmar and dorsal flexion and radial and ulnar deviation of the injured wrist were significantly less compared with the uninjured side. VAS pain scores decreased significantly from 6.5 preoperative to 1.0 postoperative. The median time to union was 23 weeks (IQR 12–29.5). Eighteen patients (38%) had a complication for which additional treatment was required. Except for a significant difference in radial inclination and length after the corrective osteotomy in favour of graft usage, there were no significant differences between graft an no graft usage.ConclusionsCorrective osteotomy is an effective method of treating symptomatic distal radius malunions with good long-term functional results, measured with the DASH and PRWE score, and improvement in radiographic parameters and pain scores. Additionally, no differences in functional outcomes were found between graft and no graft usage.     

Scaphoid Excision and Limited Wrist Fusion: A Comparison of K-Wire and Circular Plate Fixation

The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcome, union rate, and complications of a consecutive series of Scaphoid excision and limited wrist arthrodesis performed by a single surgeon using distal radius bone graft and K-wires or circular plate fixation. A sequential series of ten patients(11 wrists) who were stabilized with temporary K-wires were compared to 11 patients (11 wrists) who were stabilized with a circular plate. Minimum follow-up was 1 year. One patient in the K-wire group was converted to a wrist fusion. Six of the remaining ten patients in the K-wire fixation group and 8 of the 11 patients in the circular plate fixation group returned for the following blinded evaluations: Quick DASH, analog pain scale, range of motion, grip and pinch strength, plain x-ray, and multi-detector computed tomography evaluation. One non-union occurred in the K-wire group. There were no non-unions in the circular plate fixation group. There was no difference in any of remaining measures or rate of complications. This study shows that equivalent results can be obtained using circular plate fixation compared to K-wires when equivalent bone graft source and fusion technique are used. If K-wire removal requires a return to the OR, circular plate fixation is more cost-effective.     

Corrective osteotomy of malunited distal radius fractures using carbonated hydroxyapatite as an alternative to autogenous bone grafting

PURPOSE: The purpose of the present study was to report on the author's experience using carbonated hydroxyapatite as a bony substitute in distal radius corrective osteotomies. METHODS: Six patients had a corrective osteotomy for a malunited distal radius fracture using carbonated hydroxyapatite as an alternative to an autogenous bone graft. Internal fixation of the osteotomy was achieved by using 2 or 3 K-wires. RESULTS: At an average follow-up evaluation of 33 months (range, 22-45 mo) all the osteotomies united. Wrist flexion-extension motion improved from 75 degrees to 110 degrees , forearm rotation increased from 116 degrees to 157 degrees , and grip strength had an average increase of 140% at the time of the final follow-up evaluation. All patients were satisfied and there were no reports of persistent pain. Radiographic evaluation showed an average volar tilt improvement from a preoperative dorsal angulation shifting into a neutral position in the sagittal plane; radial lengthening improved from an average of 4 mm (range, 2-6 mm) before surgery to 7 mm (range, 5-9 mm) after surgery, ulnar plus deformity improved by 5 mm. Radiographically the carbonated hydroxyapatite material was integrated completely into the bone tissue with evidence of progressive re-absorption and bony calcification over time. The Mayo wrist score system, according to Cooney and Krimmer modifications, improved by an average of 88 and 98 points (0-100 points), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: On the basis of this preliminary experience it is reasonable to consider carbonated hydroxyapatite as a viable alternative to bone grafting in conjunction with surgical correction of a distal radius malunion. It must be augmented, however, with internal fixation.     

桡骨远端不稳定型骨折的微创治疗

目的评估桡骨远端不稳定型骨折微创治疗的手术疗效。方法对64例桡骨远端不稳定型骨折患者进行回顾性研究,在手术后1～3年,测定腕关节的活动范围和影像学指标,对腕关节功能进行Gartland-Werley评分。结果患侧腕关节的背伸和尺偏活动范围显著小于正常腕关节（P〈0.05）,掌曲、桡偏、旋前和旋后活动范围与正常腕关节无显著性差异（P〉0.05）。掌倾角显著小于正常腕关节（P〈0.01）,桡骨高度和尺偏角无显著性差异（P〉0.05）。Gartland-Werley功能评分优良率为90.6%。结论闭合复位,外固定支架结合经皮克氏针固定能有效治疗桡骨远端不稳定型骨折。     

闭口式尺桡骨双侧截骨术治疗桡骨远端畸形愈合的病例对照研究

目的:比较传统桡骨开口截骨植骨术与闭口式截骨术治疗桡骨远端畸形愈合的临床和影像学结果.方法:对2004年1月至2012年12月采取矫形截骨治疗的47例桡骨远端关节外骨折畸形愈合患者的临床资料进行回顾性研究,4例失访,1例死亡,共42例纳入研究,分为桡骨开口式截骨植骨术组(A组)和闭口式尺桡骨截骨术组(B组).A组22例,其中男5例,女17例,年龄25～75岁;B组20例,其中男4例,女16例,年龄19～79岁.根据放射学结果和功能评估结果评估临床效果,包括腕关节活动度、握力、疼痛分级评估,Mayo腕关节评分及DASH评分.结果:A组患者平均随访36个月(12～101个月),B组患者平均随访28个月(12～87个月).A组掌倾角由术前(27±8)°(20°～38°)改善至术后(14±6)°(9°～22°),B组掌倾角由术前(26±5)°(20°～32°)改善至术后(10±5)°(3°～15°).A组尺骨变异术前(7±2) mm(0～10 mm),术后减小至(3±2) mm(-1～7 mm);B组由术前(6±2)mm(1～8 mm)减小至术后(0.2±0.7)mm(-1～2 mm);B组尺骨变异恢复优于A组.腕关节屈伸活动度A组由术前(74±30)°(30°～142°)提高至术后(108±23)°(65°～159°),B组由术前(95±35)°(30°～175°)提高至术后(154±16)°(115°～180°),B组腕关节屈伸活动度改善优于A组.术后Mayo腕关节评分A组78±10(55～100分),B组86±7(70～95分),B组优于A组;术后DASH评分A组14±12(0～44分),B组13±14(1～60分),两组差异无统计学意义.结论:闭口式尺桡骨双侧截骨术能有效治疗桡骨远端关节外骨折畸形愈合,并在恢复尺骨变异、腕关节屈伸活动度和Mayo评分方面优于开口式截骨术.     

Distal radius osteotomy in the elderly patient using angular stable implants and Norian bone cement

PURPOSE: To report our results after testing the combination of two technologies--angular-stable locking screw implants and Norian SRS cement--in corrective osteotomies of the distal radius in the elderly. This technique eliminates donor site bone-graft morbidity and expands the indications of corrective osteotomies to older patients with osteoporotic bone. METHODS: Our retrospective series include 6 patients (5 women and 1 man) with an average age of 60 years. Three patients had corrections through a dorsal approach, 1 through a volar approach, and 2 through a combined approach. Two corrections included an intraarticular osteotomy. We used 2.4-mm volar T plates in patients approached volarly and 2.4-mm L and T plates for those approached dorsally; the osseous defect was filled with bone cement (Norian SRS). Range of motion and grip strength were measured at 16 months average follow-up. Standard wrist radiographs were taken to evaluate alignment and determine improvement. At final follow-up, patients completed the Modified Mayo Wrist score, the Modified Gartland and Werley score, and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. RESULTS: There were no perioperative complications. All corrective osteotomies healed. One patient required a Darrach procedure at 6 months. The average wrist and forearm motion was 77% of the opposite side and grip strength 88% of the opposite side. The average total correction in the sagittal plane was 22 degrees with all patients returning to neutral or better alignment. The average ulnar variance improvement was 2 mm. Average postoperative DASH was 28 points; average Modified Mayo Wrist score was 68; and the Modified Gartland and Werley score averaged 9 points. CONCLUSIONS: We believe that corrective osteotomy of the distal radius in the elderly using angular stable implants and Norian calcium phosphate cement is a safe and predictable surgical technique, even in patients with underlying osteoporosis. It eliminates donor site morbidity, and patient-rated outcome measures demonstrated acceptable daily living function return.     

Corrective osteotomy of the distal radius after fracture to restore the function of wrist joint, forearm, and hand

Eighty-two patients suffering from a severe deformity of the distal radius were operated on in the course of the past 7 years. The corrective osteotomy was done by implanting a corticocancellous bone graft to restore the correct angle of the joint surface and the correct length of the radius. In addition to this, a buttress T-plate was used, which could be removed 6 months later. In 80% of the cases the results with regard to the function of the patients' hands were good. The operative technique is standardized. It is possible to perform this kind of operation on patients of any age, and the procedure can check Sudeck's atrophy. When the obvious disability of the forearm is corrected the mobility of the wrist joint is simultaneously improved.     

Funktionelle Ergebnisse nach Radiuskorrekturosteotomie

BACKGROUND: Malunited fractures of the distal radius frequently show disabling and painful reductions in active range of motion (AROM) of the wrist and forearm with reduced grip strength. Shortening and three-dimensional torsion of the distal radius occur with relative ulnar lengthening. Corrective osteotomy of the distal radius is indicated in these conditions. METHODS: We examined 24 of 30 patients after corrective osteotomy with respect to AROM, grip strength, DASH, and pain perception (visual analogue scale). The mean age of the population was 49 years (18-69 years), and the mean follow-up period was 22 months (6-63 months). RESULTS: Preoperative extension/flexion was 65 degrees , postoperative 92 degrees (p<0.05). Forearm rotation improved from 129 degrees preoperative to 160 degrees postoperative (p<0.01). The DASH score could be reduced from 40 (n=9) to 18 (n=24). Grip strength increased from 17 kg to 27 kg postoperative (p<0.01). Radioulnar inclination increased from 15 degrees preoperative to 24 degrees postoperative (p<0.05). Relative ulnar lengthening could be minimized from 4.3 mm to 0.7 mm (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Data show that reconstruction of the distal radius improves grip strength and range of motion significantly with simultaneous reduction of pain perception and DASH scores.     

Staged reconstruction for malunited fractures of the distal radius

This prospective study assessed the outcomes of 26 symptomatic malunited distal radial fractures which were treated with an opening wedge corrective osteotomy and bone grafting with rigid fixation. An ulnar shortening osteotomy was subsequently required as a second-stage operation in five cases to restore normal ulnar variance. A wrist arthroscopy was indicated as a third stage procedure with persistent ulnar sided wrist pain in order to address central tears of the triangular fibrocartilage. Satisfactory functional scores were achieved by 20 of the 26 patients after distal radial osteotomy alone and, 24 of the 26 after subsequent ulnar shortening osteotomies and arthroscopy when necessary. The one, two or three stage concept of reconstructing the malunited distal end radius could optimise the outcome rather than using a single-stage strategy.     

Surgical treatment of unstable distal radius fractures with volar locking plates

BACKGROUND: Surgical treatment of unstable distal radius fractures does not always yield a satisfactory outcome. The several surgical strategies available have problems associated with them. This study was undertaken to determine if volar locking plate fixation could be useful for treating unstable distal radius fractures. METHODS: This retrospective follow-up study assessed 24 fractures in 24 patients with unstable distal radius fractures surgically treated with one of three volar locking plate systems. According to the AO classification system, 7 patients had type A3 fractures, 5 patients had type C2 fractures, and the remaining 12 patients had type C3 fractures. Radiographic measurements included volar tilt, radial inclination, and ulnar variance. Clinical outcomes were evaluated by active range of motion of the wrist and forearm, grip strength, Saito's wrist score, and the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Hand version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire (JSSH version of the DASH). RESULTS: At the time of final follow-up (5 months minimum) the mean volar tilt was 8.1 degrees , radial inclination was 20 degrees, and ulnar variance was 0.4 mm. Mean wrist extension measured 61 degrees, wrist flexion 55 degrees, radial deviation 23 degrees, ulnar deviation 35 degrees, pronation 87 degrees, and supination 87 degrees. Grip strength recovered to a mean of 84% of the grip strength in the contralateral limb for patients who had injured their dominant hand and to a mean of 73% for patients who had injured their nondominant hand. Saito's wrist score calculations revealed 20 excellent and 4 good results. The mean DASH disability/symptom score was 9.9 points, and the mean DASH work module score was 8.2 points. CONCLUSIONS: The present study demonstrated that unstable distal radius fractures could be successfully treated with volar locking plate systems.     

Augmentation of distal radius fracture fixation with coralline hydroxyapatite bone graft substitute.

We implanted coralline hydroxyapatite bone graft as a substitute for autogenous bone graft to support the reduced articular surface of 21 consecutive patients with distal radius fractures treated with external fixation and K-wires. The purpose of this single-cohort retrospective study was to report the outcomes of treatment with this material, complications associated with its use, and its efficacy in supporting the articular surface reduction. Eighteen patients were available for independent evaluation of motion, subjective outcome analysis, and final radiographic analysis at an average of 35 months after surgery. Wrist motion averaged 90% of the uninjured wrist and grip strength measured 75% of the uninjured side. Results in 17 of the 18 cases were rated as good or excellent by the criteria of Gartland and Werley; 12 by the criteria of Green and O'Brien. Seventeen had good or excellent radiographic results by the modified Lidstrom radiographic scoring system. The average DASH functional/symptom score was 90.3 (maximum, 100). Radiographic parameters were restored to an average of 12 mm radial length, 4 degrees volar tilt, 23 degrees radial inclination, and 0.6 mm positive ulnar variance. Articular reduction was maintained in all patients. A complication related to the use of coral was a 0.5 mm prominence of coralline hydroxyapatite beyond the subchondral line at the radiocarpal joint in 1 patient, which was not present on final radiographs. Coralline hydroxyapatite was effective at maintaining articular surface reduction when used in combination with external fixation and K-wires and had a safety profile comparable to other forms of treatment.     

植骨内固定与闭合复位支架外固定治疗桡骨远端C型骨折疗效比较

目的：比较植骨内固定与闭合复位支架外固定治疗桡骨远端C型骨折的临床疗效。方法对38例桡骨远端C型骨折患者分别采用植骨内固定(17例)与闭合复位支架外固定(21例)治疗。比较两组术后影像学指标,腕关节功能按Gartland-Werley功能评分标准进行评价。结果患者均获得随访,时间6~18个月。术后3个月掌倾角、桡骨高度内固定组均优于外固定组,差异均有统计学意义( P<0．05)。末次随访腕关节背伸、掌屈、旋前、旋后及 Gartland-Werley 功能评分内固定组均优于外固定组,差异均有统计学意义( P <0．05)。腕关节功能评估：内固定组优6例,良9例,可2例,优良率15/17;外固定组优4例,良10例,可5例,差2例,优良率14/21;两组差异有统计学意义(P<0．05)。结论植骨内固定治疗桡骨远端C型骨折能达到理想复位,能有效防止骨折复位丢失和再移位,临床疗效优于闭合复位支架外固定。     

Temporary fixation with the Agee-Wristjack during correctional osteotomies for malunions and nonunions of the distal radius

Upper extremity surgeons are often responsible for managing complex malunions and nonunions of distal radius fractures. Studies have demonstrated that corrective osteotomies of the malunited distal radius with placement of sculpted bone grafts produce the best functional and cosmetic results in patients. We describe a technique for providing provisional stabilization of the osteotomy site for treatment of distal radius malunions and nonunions using the Agee-Wristjack external fixator device. The Agee-Wristjack has several features that make it superior to other available small external fixators. Its gear mechanisms confer stable distraction of the distal radius following osteotomy and greatly facilitate appropriate positioning of the distal fragment. Iliac crest bone graft may be harvested and shaped precisely to fit the osteotomy defect. Placement of the Agee-Wristjack's distal fixator pins into the index metacarpal instead of the distal radius fragment facilitates application of a plate, with minimal interference from the distal pins. Finally, the Agee-Wristjack may be maintained following surgery to supplement the internal fixation.     

Acceptable parameters for alignment of distal radius fracture with conservative treatment in elderly patients

BackgroundThere is a conflict in the treatment of distal radius fractures in elderly patients, because fracture reduction does not appear to be as strongly associated with functional outcomes as in younger patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate radiographic findings of acceptable reduction without leading to wrist dysfunction and poor outcomes.MethodsFifty-two active and healthy elderly patients with conservatively managed distal radius fractures were included in the study. They consisted of 7 men and 45 women, all 60 years or older. Radiographic assessment included volar tilt, radial inclination and ulnar variance, and outcome evaluation included the Mayo wrist score and DASH score. As a control group, the preoperative radiographic and clinical outcomes were examined as well for 19 patients older than 60 with malunion, for whom corrective osteotomy was performed because of wrist dysfunction. The radiographic parameters and clinical outcomes were compared between the two groups in a statistical manner. Correlation coefficients of the radiographic parameters with Mayo wrist score and DASH score were analyzed by multiple regression.ResultsVolar tilt (mean —1.2°) and ulnar variance (mean 2.5 mm), as well as Mayo wrist score (mean 80.0 points) and DASH score (mean 8.6 points) in the objective group were significantly superior to those in the control group when comparing radiographic parameters and clinical outcomes. There was no significant difference between the two groups in regard to RI (mean 14.9°). Multiple regression analysis revealed that volar tilt and ulnar variance were significantly correlated with the clinical outcomes in the objective.ConclusionThe parameters of volar tilt and ulnar variance had a significant correlation with clinical outcomes. Clinical outcomes significantly worsened when those parameters exceeded a tolerable range. In elderly patients, it is important to determine an appropriate therapeutic modality for a distal radius fracture when considering the acceptable parameters for alignment.     

Imaging assessment of groin pain

The aim of the study is to find whether there is any superiority of the iliac crest bone graft over the distal radius bone graft, in surgery of nonunion of scaphoid fractures. This is a prospective randomized controlled trial comparing 50 patients treated with internal fixation and distal radius bone graft (group 1) and 50 patients in whom iliac crest bone graft was used instead (group 2). The patients donor site pain in the postoperative period was assessed using visual analogue scale. At each follow-up, each patient was evaluated using Quick DASH score and Mayo’s scoring system. Minimum follow-up was 3 years. Mean value of visual analogue scale for pain was 7.1 for group 2 and 4.2 for group 1. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of range of wrist joint motion, functional scores, union rate and fracture reduction. There is no advantage of the iliac crest over the distal radius graft to justify its greater morbidity.     

Complex Fractures of the Distal Radius

Abstract Objective: Outcome of complex distal radius fractures. Design: Retrospective clinical observation. Setting: Outcome assessment of a clinical series of patients with complex distal radius fractures treated according to a structured, stepwise treatment algorithm. Patients: 17 patients (average age 47 years) with mostly high-energy injuries, 16/17 articular fractures including concomitant carpal injuries, fracture dislocations, extension of the fracture into the diaphysis, and large defects. Intervention: Initial external fixation, followed by soft tissue treatment and further diagnostics and, finally, definitive adapted surgical therapy including combination of external fixation, plates, screws, K-wires, bone graft, and ligament repair. Main Outcome Measurements: DASH, range of motion, radiologic outcome. Results: Average subjective overall performance score (DASH) 16.4 (0–36.7, standard deviation [SD] 11.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 8.0–23.6), 73% of the patients back to premorbid work and activities. Conclusions: Using a clearly structured, stepwise approach, complex distal radius fractures can be treated with good clinical outcome preserving hand function.     

Les fractures du radius distal après 70 ans : ostéosynthèse par plaque palmaire ou broches ?

In a growing elderly osteoporotic population, the management of distal radius fractures remains without consensus as to volar distal plate versus K-wires. The goal of this retrospective study was to evaluate these treatments in elderly people. In a series of 38 patients over 70 years, 21 were treated by a volar plate and 17 by percutaneous K-wire fixation. Follow-up was at least 6 months. Results were analyzed using the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH), patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) and Herzberg score by an independent operator. Radiological parameters were radio-ulnar variance, radial inclination and palmar or dorsal tilt. Radio-ulnar variance was better for the plate group (?0.7 mm versus ?0.1 mm in K-wires). Mean functional outcomes were good but there were more satisfied patients in the plate group (67% versus 39% for the K-wire group). Secondary displacements were frequent in both groups but more with K-wires (50% versus 37% in case of plates). Six articles about surgical treatment of elderly radius distal fractures were published up to 2009 showing similar results. However, they analyze only global mean scores. Volar plates give more stability and a higher rate of satisfaction, with similar results of wrist mobility and grasp strength. The main advantage of the plates is earlier return to daily activities.     

Osteotomy for malunited fractures of the distal radius: a comparison of structural and nonstructural autogenous bone grafts

Two cohorts of 10 patients who had a corrective osteotomy for a malunited fracture of the distal radius with a pi-shaped plate and screw fixation were compared retrospectively to see whether the outcome was affected by using a nonstructural cancellous bone graft compared with a trapezoidal corticocancellous bone graft. The indications for the osteotomy, surgical techniques, and postoperative rehabilitation were consistent and all surgical procedures were done by the same surgeon. All osteotomies healed without loss of the surgical correction. Follow-up radiographic and functional results were comparable between groups. Use of a nonstructural, cancellous only bone graft-appealing in its relative simplicity-seems safe and efficacious.     

锁定加压接骨板与外固定支架治疗桡骨远端粉碎性骨折的疗效比较

目的 比较锁定加压接骨板与外固定支架治疗桡骨远端粉碎性骨折的临床疗效.方法 对40例桡骨远端粉碎性骨折患者,采用掌侧锁定加压接骨板和外固定支架治疗;其中21例行掌侧锁定加压接骨板,19例行外固定支架.按AO/ASIF分型:C1型10例,C2型15例,C3型15例.随访内容包括测量腕关节活动度,前臂旋转活动度,握力、捏力及相关影像学资料(掌倾角、尺偏角、桡骨高度).按上肢功能评定标准(Disabilities of the Arm,Shoulder and Hand,DASH)和Gartland-Werley腕关节评分标准进行综合评估.对随访数据进行统计学分析,比较两组的治疗效果.结果 术后随访时间为6～48个月,平均18.8个月.根据Gartland-Werley腕关节评分标准评定,锁定加压接骨板治疗组优良率为81.0%,外固定支架治疗组优良率为78.9%.两组在掌曲、背伸、桡偏、旋前、旋后、握力、捏力、掌倾角、尺偏角、桡骨高度等方面,Gartland-Werley腕关节评分和DASH值差异均无统计学意义(P＞0.05);锁定接骨板组的腕尺偏活动度小于外固定支架组,差异有统计学意义(P＜0.05).锁定接骨板治疗组中无并发症出现.外固定支架治疗组中1例反射性交感神经营养不良症,药物治疗和理疗后好转;1例钉道感染,局部换药后治愈.结论 采用掌侧锁定加压接骨板和外固定支架治疗桡骨远端粉碎性骨折具有相同效果,具体可根据骨折类型、患者的功能要求及经济情况选择手术方案.

Abstract：

Objective To compare the treatment outcomes between locking compression plate and external fixator for treating severely comminuted distal radius fracture. Methods Forty patients of severely comminuted distal radius fractures were treated with either locking compression plate fixation via a volar approach or external fixator. Twenty-one patients were treated with locking compression plate fixation, while the other 19 patients were treated with external fixator. According to AO/ASIF classification, there were 10 type C1 fractures,15 type C2 fractures and 15 type C3 fractures.Wrist range of motion, forearm range of motion, grip and pinch strength, radiographic data (palmar tilt, radial inclination, radial height), scores by the Disabilities of the Arm,Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and by Gartland-Werley were collected at follow-up. The data were statistically analyzed to compare the clinical effects. Results Postoperative follow-up ranged from 6 to 48 months with an average of 18.8 months. According to Gartland-Werley wrist score, the excellent and good rate was 81.0% in the locking compression plate group, and 78.9% in the external fixator group. No significantly difference was detected in the ROM of flexion, extension, radial deviation, pronation, supination, grip and pinch strength, the parameter of palmar inclination, ulnar inclination and radial height and in Gartland-Werley score and DASH score between the two groups (P＞0.05). The ROM of unlar deviation in the locking compression plate group was significantly smaller than that in the external fixation group ( P＜0.05). No complication occurred in the locking compression plate group. One patient developed sympathetic reflex dystrophy postoperatively in the external fixation group. After medication and physical therapy the symptoms had resolved. Infection of the external fixator pin tract was note in another patient which was effectively treated by wound care. Conclusion Locking compression plate and external fixator lead to siunilar treatment outcomes for severely cormminuted distal radius fractures. Patient's functional requirement, age and financial status should be taken into consideration while choosing one of these procedures.