Wrist-bridging versus non-bridging external fixation for displaced distal radius fractures: A randomized assessor-blind clinical trial of 38 patients followed for 1 year

Background?Non-bridging external fixation has been introduced to achieve better fracture fixation and functional outcomes in distal radius fractures, but has not been specifically evaluated in a randomized study in the elderly. The purpose of this trial was to compare wrist-bridging and non-bridging external fixation for displaced distal radius fractures.

Method?The inclusion criteria were women ≥ 50 or men ≥ 60 years, acute extraarticular or intraarticular fracture, and dorsal angulation of ≥20° or ulnar variance ≥ 5?mm. The patients completed the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) questionnaire before and at 10, 26 and 52 weeks after surgery. Pain (visual analog scale), range of motion and grip strength were measured by a blinded assessor.

Results?38 patients (mean age 71 years, 31 women) were randomized at surgery (19 to each group). Mean operating time was shorter for wrist-bridging fixation by 10 (95% CI 3–17) min. There was no significant difference in DASH scores between the groups. No statistically significant differences in pain score, range of motion, grip strength, or patient satisfaction were found. The non-bridging group had a significantly better radial length at 52 weeks; mean difference in change in ulnar variance from baseline was 1.4 (95% CI 0.1–2.7) mm (p = 0.04). Volar tilt and radial inclination were similar in both groups.

Interpretation?For moderately or severely displaced distal radius fractures in the elderly, non-bridging external fixation had no clinically relevant advantage over wrist-bridging fixation but was more effective in maintaining radial length.     

Fractures of the distal radius treated with a nonbridging external fixation technique using multiplanar k-wires

PURPOSE: Joint-bridging external fixation is a minimally invasive treatment option for distal radius fractures. Although radial length can be restored easily the anatomic reduction of articular fragments and restoration of the normal volar tilt proves to be more difficult. A method of nonbridging hybrid fixation of distal radius fractures facilitates fracture reduction and allows for free wrist movement. METHODS: Twenty-five consecutive patients with fractures of the distal radius were treated with nonbridging external fixation for 6 weeks. The stepwise surgical technique comprised a preliminary joint-bridging construction for reduction purposes, the subsequent insertion of 3 to 4 K-wires in the distal fragment, the assembling of wires to a bar nearly parallel to the fracture line, and lastly the removal of the joint-bridging part. Clinical and radiologic evaluation was performed on the first and seventh days and at 6 weeks and 2 years after surgery. RESULTS: All fractures united. Palmar tilt (> or =0 degrees ) and articular surface (articular step-off < 2 mm) were restored in all patients whereas loss of radial length occurred in 4 patients having the distal fracture fragment secured with 3 K-wires. No radial shortening was seen in fractures with 4 K-wires inserted in the distal fragment. Functional results at 2 years after surgery showed an average extension of 55 degrees and flexion of 64 degrees without significant differences between extra-articular and intra-articular fractures. There was no extensor tendinitis or pin loosening in the distal fragment; however, 3 pin track infections of proximal pins occurred. CONCLUSIONS: This surgical technique of nonbridging external fixation is a good treatment option for distal radius fractures: it permits wrist movement. We recommend the insertion of 4 K-wires in the distal fracture fragment.     

外固定架与DVR解剖锁定板治疗C型桡骨远端骨折的疗效对比

目的:比较DVR解剖锁定钢板与外固定架治疗C型桡骨远端骨折的临床效果。方法:对2009年1月至2013年12月收治的52例C型桡骨远端骨折患者的临床资料进行回顾性分析,其中31例采用掌侧入路切开复位、DVR解剖锁定钢板内固定(钢板内固定组),男11例,女20例;年龄24~65岁,平均(47.3±10.9)岁;左侧13例,右侧18例;按桡骨远端骨折AO分型,C1型12例,C2型15例,C3型4例。21例采用闭合复位、外固定架固定(外固定架组),男8例,女13例;年龄26~69岁,平均(48.1±12.1)岁;左侧10例,右侧11例;按桡骨远端骨折AO分型,C1型7例,C2型11例,C3型3例。对两组患者的术后影像学、腕关节活动度及Gartland-Werley功能评分进行比较。结果:术后52例患者均获得随访,钢板内固定组随访时间13~36个月,平均20.4个月;外固定架组随访时间11~33个月,平均17.1个月。钢板内固定组患者掌倾角和尺偏角均优于外固定架组(P0.05),两组患者桡骨高度和Gartland-Werley评分比较差异无统计学意义(P0.05)。钢板内固定组1例出现腕关节僵硬、握力下降;外固定架组发生钉道感染2例,固定松动1例,腕关节僵硬、握力下降2例。结论:采用DVR解剖锁定钢板治疗C型桡骨远端骨折,操作简单,固定可靠,疗效优于外固定架,但DVR解剖锁定钢板内固定手术费用高,需二次手术取出内固定,临床上可根据患者具体情况选择治疗方式。     

Wrist-bridging versus non-bridging external fixation for displaced distal radius fractures: a randomized assessor-blind clinical trial of 38 patients followed for 1 year

Background Non-bridging external fixation has been introduced to achieve better fracture fixation and functional outcomes in distal radius fractures, but has not been specifically evaluated in a randomized study in the elderly. The purpose of this trial was to compare wrist-bridging and non-bridging external fixation for displaced distal radius fractures.

Method The inclusion criteria were women ≥ 50 or men ≥ 60 years, acute extraarticular or intraarticular fracture, and dorsal angulation of ≥20° or ulnar variance ≥ 5 mm. The patients completed the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) questionnaire before and at 10, 26 and 52 weeks after surgery. Pain (visual analog scale), range of motion and grip strength were measured by a blinded assessor.

Results 38 patients (mean age 71 years, 31 women) were randomized at surgery (19 to each group). Mean operating time was shorter for wrist-bridging fixation by 10 (95% CI 3-17) min. There was no significant difference in DASH scores between the groups. No statistically significant differences in pain score, range of motion, grip strength, or patient satisfaction were found. The non-bridging group had a significantly better radial length at 52 weeks; mean difference in change in ulnar variance from baseline was 1.4 (95% CI 0.1-2.7) mm (p = 0.04). Volar tilt and radial inclination were similar in both groups.

Interpretation For moderately or severely displaced distal radius fractures in the elderly, non-bridging external fixation had no clinically relevant advantage over wrist-bridging fixation but was more effective in maintaining radial length.     

Palmar locking plate for treatment of unstable dorsal dislocated distal radius fractures

Introduction This study investigates the clinical and radiological results of open reduction and internal fixation of unstable distal radial fractures using a palmar placed interlocking plate system with no substitutes for treatment of the dorsal metaphyseal fracture void.Materials and methods Nineteen patients with a mean age of 61 years (range 49–78 years) and a dorsally displaced distal radial fracture were treated using a palmar placed 2.4 mm interlocking plate system. All 17 women and 2 men were followed up according to the study protocol. Standardised radiographs in anteroposterior and lateral projection were performed before reduction and at 2, 6, 12 and 24 weeks after surgery. Radiological measurements included palmar tilt, radial inclination and radial shortening as defined by ulnar variance and intra-articular steps. Clinical assessment included active range of motion (ARM) of the wrist, pain according to a visual analogue scale (VAS), grip power, working ability, Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand-Score (DASH Score) and Mayo Wrist Score.Results At final follow-up after a minimum of 11 months, the palmar tilt was +1°, radial inclination 19.8° and ulnar variance 1.0 mm. Mean loss of palmar tilt measured 1.9°, radial inclination 1.3° and ulnar variance 0.4 mm. Mean wrist extension measured 58°, wrist flexion 41°, pronation 83° and supination 84°. The Mayo Wrist Score showed 21% excellent, 58% good, 16% fair and 5% poor results.Conclusion The treatment of unstable, dorsally dislocated, distal radius fractures AO types A3, C1 and C2, with a palmar placed 2.4 mm interlocking plate system and without additional treatment of the metaphyseal defects showed good radiological and functional results with minimal loss of reduction.     

斜T形钢板与外固定架均结合克氏针内固定治疗桡骨远端C型骨折的疗效对比

目的比较斜T形钢板与外固定架均结合克氏针内固定治疗桡骨远端C型骨折的疗效对比分析。方法回顾性分析自2006—01—2013-06分别采用斜T形钢板内固定与外固定架结合克氏针内固定治疗桡骨远端C型骨折44例。结果所有患者获得12～18个月（平均16．5个月）的随访。术后12个月采用腕关节功能Gartland—Werley评分对术后疗效进行评估：内外固定组优良率分别为81．0％（17,21）、82．6％（19／23）,并发症发生率分别为9．52％（2／21）、13．04％（3／23）。2组比较差异无统计学意义（P〉0．05）。术后6个月内固定组掌倾角、尺偏角明显优于外固定组,差异有统计学意义（P〈0．05）。结论2种固定方式治疗桡骨远端C型骨折均可达到较为满意的临床效果,斜T形钢板内固定术后短期内影像学结果稍好,对于远期疗效而言,选用外固定架结合克氏针内固定有创伤小、恢复快、成本低、操作方便等特点。     

Absorbable polyglycolide pins in fixation of displaced fractures of the radial head

Summary In a prospective study 24 patients with a displaced fracture of the radial head were treated by open reduction and internal fixation using absorbable polygly-colide pins, 2 mm in diameter. All patients admitted with fractures involving a quarter or more of the radial head, whether comminuted or not, were included in the study whenever there was a displacement of 2 mm or more between the fragments. The mean follow-up time was 28 months (range 15–43 months). A postoperative redisplacement of 1–3 mm between the fragments was seen in four patients with severely comminuted fractures. A transient inflammatory reaction around the implants occurred in two cases 8–12 weeks postoperatively. The functional end-result was classified as excellent or good in 22 patients (91%). This study indicated that successful fixation of displaced fractures of the radial head can be accomplished by using absorbable pins.     

Surgical correction of deformities of the distal radius due to fractures in pediatric patients

Introduction The indication and treatment of malunited fractures of the distal radius in the growing skeleton differ from those for adults. The literature results are scarce. In this study we examined the results of surgical correction following fractures of the distal radius in infants.Materials and methods Seven infant patients with malaligned fractures of the distal radius that demonstrated significant functional deficit and poor prognosis for spontanous recovery were treated with surgical correction. Two of them were treated because of growth disturbance from post-traumatic closure of the distal radial physis.Results All seven osteotomies healed with acceptable radiologic alignment. After an average follow-up period of 3 years and 1 month (range 10 months to 8 years and 4 months), patients had an average range of wrist motion (ROM) of 131 deg in extension and flexion (93% of the contralateral side, 130% of presurgical situation); 65 deg in ulnar and radial deviation (94% of the contralateral side, 122% of presurgical situation); and 177 deg in pronation and supination of the forearm (97% of the contralateral side, 115% of presurgical situation). The average grip strength of 71.4 kPa was nearly equal to the other side with 72.8 kPa. The average postoperative angulation of the distal radius was 12 (range 10–17) deg, the radial inclination 20 (range 12–30) deg, and the ulnar variance was –0.6 (range –3 to +2) mm. According to the Fernandez point score system as well as the scale of Fernandez, there were five excellent results and two good results. The patients described low disability on the DASH scores, with a median of 4 (range 0–41) points.Conclusions Surgical correction for malunited fractures of the distal radius provides good and excellent radiological and functional results in the growing skeleton. It should be considered immediately if there is poor remodeling capacity and disabling loss of function.     

Augmented external fixation versus percutaneous pinning and casting for unstable fractures of the distal radius--a prospective randomized trial

PURPOSE: Many outcome studies of various surgical techniques for unstable fractures of the distal radius have been published but applicability of the results remains limited because the majority of these trials were not done in a prospective and/or randomized manner. In this study we evaluated 2 common surgical techniques used in the treatment of unstable distal radius fractures in a randomized prospective fashion with a 1-year radiographic and clinical follow-up period. Our hypothesis was that external fixation with augmentation would provide superior results compared with percutaneous pinning and casting. METHODS: Fifty patients younger than 65 years of age with unstable fractures of the distal radius were randomized into 1 of 2 surgical treatment groups: percutaneous pins with casting or augmented external fixation. All surgery was performed by 1 of 3 surgeons within 10 days of injury. Over 80% of the fractures were classified as AO-ASIF C2 or C3 and there was a similar distribution of fracture types in each group. RESULTS: The use of augmented external fixation did not improve the mean radiographic parameters of radial length, radial angulation, or volar tilt. Restoration of volar tilt of highly comminuted fractures was difficult to achieve regardless of the technique. Improved articular surface reduction was realized with the use of an external fixator but overall only 3 patients were noted to have steps or gaps greater than 2 mm. No significant differences in mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores, total range of motion, grip strength, or health-related quality of life were observed between the groups. All 3 patients diagnosed with sympathetic dystrophy had had external fixation. CONCLUSIONS: Although augmented external fixation represents a popular first line treatment for unstable fractures of the distal radius this study suggests that for fractures with minimal articular displacement similar clinical results can be obtained with percutaneous pinning and casting.     

The suitability of an uncemented hydroxyapatite coated (HAC) hip hemiarthroplasty stem for intra-capsular femoral neck fractures in osteoporotic elderly patients: the Metaphyseal-Diaphyseal index, a solution to preventing intra-operative periprosthetic fracture

Over the years, management of complex distal radius fractures by closed means has often failed leading to late collapse. We have chosen the principle of ligamentotaxis using external fixation and bone grafting in this study to prevent late complications. Eighty one patients with complex distal radius fractures belonging to Type IV A, IV B, IV C of Universal classification were treated with an AO external fixator between 1995 and 2001. Mean age group was 38. 47 years with longest follow up of 7 years. Bone grafting was done primarily in 20 patients and early grafting (within 3 weeks) in 5 patients. Statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups(with or without bone grafting) with respect to postoperative values of (radial length, radial tilt and volar tilt). Results were assessed based on Sarmientos criteria. 56 patients had excellent results, 9 had good results and 16 had poor results. Late collapse with decreased radial length was observed in 18 patients who did not undergo bone grafting. Mean grip strength was 63 percent. Osteoarthritic changes were noted in 20 patients. We conclude that accurate anatomic reduction is necessary for achieving good to excellent functional and cosmetic results. Bone grafting is the mainstay of treatment in comminuted distal radius fractures along with fracture stabilisation.     

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.     

Graft-supplemented, augmented external fixation in the treatment of intra-articular distal radial fractures

This article compares the functional and radiographic outcomes of intraarticular distal radial fractures treated with augmented external fixation in which autologous cancellous bone grafting or Norian SRS (Norian Corp, Cupertino, Calif) was used for filling the metaphyseal void. Thirty non-randomized patients, 15 in each group, with AO type C distal radius fractures (20 men and 10 women; average age: 48 years) were operatively treated between 1998-2000 and retrospectively evaluated. Radial inclination, radial length, volar tilt, and Modified Mayo Wrist Score were assessed at the most recent follow-up evaluation (average: 33.3 months). Overall, 12 (80%) patients in the Norian group had an excellent or good result, 2 had fair, and 1 had poor. In the autologous iliac bone graft group, the results were excellent or good in 11 (73.3%) patients, fair in 1, and poor in 2. No statistical difference between the two types of grafting was noted. Norian SRS is equally effective to cancellous bone as supplementary graft in comminuted distal radial fractures treated by external and Kirschner-wire fixation.     

Functional outcome of arthroscopic assisted fixation of distal radius fractures

Background:

Many studies in literature have supported the role of wrist arthroscopy as an adjunct to the stable fixation of unstable intraarticular distal radial fractures. This article focuses on the surgical technique, indications, advantages, and results using wrist arthroscopy to assess articular reduction and evaluates the treatment of carpal ligament injuries and triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injuries in conjunction with the stable fixation of distal radial fractures.

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated 27 patients (16 males and 11 females), who underwent stable fixation of intraarticular distal radial fractures with arthroscopic evaluation of the articular reduction and repair of associated carpal injuries. As per the AO classification, they were 9 C 1, 12 C2, 2 C3, 3 B 1, and 1 B2 fractures. The final results were evaluated by modified Mayo wrist scoring system. The average age was 41 years (range: 18-68 years). The average followup was of 26 months (range 24-52 months).

Results:

Five patients needed modification of the reduction and fixation after arthroscopic joint evaluation. Associated ligament lesions found during the wrist arthroscopy were TFCC tears (n=17), scapholunate ligament injury (n=8), and luno-triquetral ligament injury (n=1). Five patients had combined injuries i.e. included TFCC tear, scapholunate and/or lunotriquetral ligament tear. There were 20 excellent, 3 good, and 4 fair results using this score.

Conclusion:

The radiocarpal and mid carpal arthroscopy is a useful adjunct to stable fixation of distal radial fractures.     

关节镜诊治关节内桡骨远端粉碎性骨折的软组织损伤

Objective To diagnose and evaluate soft tissue injuries in intra-articular fractures of the distal radius using arthroseopy. Methods Twenty young patients with displaced intra-articular fractures of distal radius were recruited in this prospective study. Three AO C2 and 17 C3 fractures were included. After arthroseopie examination fractures of distal radius were treated by external fixation with limited internal fixation or open plate fixation. Results Triangular fibrocartilage complex （TFCC） injury was found in 18 patients （90%） . Most were isolated Palmer type 1D injuries （67 % ）. Seapho-lunate ligament injury was found in two patients： one partial tear （grade H） and one complete tear （grade HI ）. Follow-ups ranged from 6 to 18 months. At the last follow-up, wrist function was excellent in one patient （6%）, good in eight（44% ） and fair in 11 （50%）. Conclusion TFCC injuries are common in intra-artieular fractures of the distal radius while injuries to seapho-lunate ligament are uncommon.     

Severely comminuted distal radial fracture as an unsolved problem: complications associated with external fixation and pins and plaster techniques

Seventy-six patients with severely comminuted distal radial fractures were treated at two institutions, of which the overwhelming majority were Frykman class VIII. Fifteen fractures were open. Thirty patients were seen at the University Hospital; 17 had pins and plaster and 13 had external fixation. Forty-six patients were seen at Kaiser Hospital; all had pins and plaster treatment. The complication rate for those with pins and plaster at the University Hospital was 53%; the complication for external fixation rate was 62%. The affiliated-hospital complication rate was 52%. All patients with ipsilateral forearm shaft and carpal fractures developed a nonunion of the carpal fracture. Few patients maintained anatomic reduction, and many had significant intra-articular malalignment. External fixation with threaded half pins did not obviate pin problems in our series. These methods may help manage severely comminuted distal radial fractures, but complications should be anticipated and alternative treatment considered, especially when ipsilateral carpal or forearm shaft fractures are present.     

跨腕关节外固定器在桡骨远端陈旧性骨折中的应用

目的 分析桡骨远端有限切开复位、跨腕关节外固定器固定治疗桡骨远端陈旧性骨折的效果.方法 2006年3月至2008年3月,应用桡骨下端切开复位、跨腕关节外固定器固定治疗桡骨远端陈旧性骨折患者16例18侧,年龄29～72岁(平均52.6岁),其中Colles骨折13例15侧,Smith骨折3例3侧.桡骨下端复位及植骨后,以外固定器协助复位及静力性固定.方果 随访时间4～30个月,平均16个月;骨折愈合时间6～12周,平均8.7周.根据Gartland与Werley腕关节评分标准评定:优11侧,良4侧,可3侧;优良率为83.3%.方论 有限切开复位、跨腕关节外固定器固定治疗桡骨陈旧性远端骨折,手术操作简单,组织损伤小,有利于术后早期功能锻炼,促进骨折愈合,是桡骨远端陈旧性骨折的一种有效治疗方法.     

Fractures of the distal tibia: minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis

Unstable fractures of the distal tibia that are not suitable for intramedullary nailing are commonly treated by open reduction and internal fixation and/or external fixation, or treated non-operatively. Treatment of these injuries using minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) techniques may minimise soft tissue injury and damage to the vascular integrity of the fracture fragments. We report the results of 20 patients treated by MIPO for closed fractures of the distal tibia. Their mean age was 38.3 years (range: 17-71 years). Fractures were classified according to the AO system, and intra-articular extensions according to Rüedi and Allg?wer. The mean time to full weight-bearing was 12 weeks (range: 8-20 weeks) and to union was 23 weeks (range: 18-29 weeks), without need for further surgery. There was one malunion, no deep infections and no failures of fixation. MIPO is an effective treatment for closed, unstable fractures of the distal tibia, avoiding the complications associated with more traditional methods of internal fixation and/or external fixation.     

Open tibial fractures treated with Hoffmann external fixation

Summary Thirty-two open fractures of the tibial shaft were treated with external fixation between 1973 and 1981. Early amputation was necessary in one patient. In the remainder, including 14 with extensive soft-tissue lesions, wound healing was obtained within 18 weeks, and the median time until full weight bearing without pain was 32 weeks (range 8–60 weeks). Two deep infections healed during the observation period. Among 26 patients examined 1–9 years after the injury, the result was excellent in six, good in 11, fair in four, and poor in five patients (including the amputation). One fracture had not united during the observation period. Four poor results were due to the stiffness of the ankle and foot after compartment syndrome. In conclusion, alertness for early fasciotomy is necessary even in severe open tibial fractures. The external fixation should not be continued longer than the soft tissue and bone reconstruction make it necessary.     

External fixation of distal radial fractures

From February 1995 until December 1997 we treated 48 patients aged between 26 and 79 years for distal radial fractures with external fixation. They were treated in an Arbeitsgemeinschaft fur Osteosynthestragen (A.O.) construct for periods of 5-10 weeks, the mean being 6 weeks. Forty patients were available for follow up. Our indications for this procedure were: severe comminuted displaced intra-articular fracture, severe shortening and inability to achieve fixation with other methods. The majority of patients had A.O. Classification type C fractures. Patients at follow up had objective clinical and radiological assessment as well as a subjective functional evaluation. Results were calculated using Stewart's modification of Gartland and Werley's assessment criteria. Functionally 90% achieved an excellent or good result. Radiographically 95% had an excellent or good result.     

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.