Abstract：Objective To evaluate the radiological and functional outcome following external fixation of unstable distal radius fractures.Methods Sixty-two patients with unstable distal radius fractures(Müller AO classification:A3 in 14,C2 in 28 and C3 in 20) underwent manipulative reduction and external fixation across the joint.If necessary,additional Kirschner wires were used.Fracture reduction and wrist function were assessed by using improved sarmiento system and Dienst criteria,respectively.Postoperative complications were observed in all patients.Results All fractures healed with an average healing time of 5.5 weeks.After 3 to 12 months of follow-up,excellent fracture reduction was achieved in 53 patients(85.5%) and excellent wrist function in 57 patients(91.9%).Among the 62 patients,pin tract infection occurred in 2 patients,Schanz screw loosening in 1 patient(fracture healed after active treatment),and reflex sympathetic dystrophy in 1 patient.No patients had neurovascular injury and fracture re-displacement.Conclusion Combined use of closed reduction and external fixation is an effective method for treating unstable distal radius fractures.
2012, Vol. 52 
