ABSTRACT

Instable distal radius fractures with or without involvement of distal radioulnar joint should be operated. By making use ligamentotaxis principles, external fixation becomes an alternative method to open reduction and internal fıxation for both reduction of fracture and maintenance of correction. From July ı99ı to September ı993, 24 patients were operated and external fixators were applied in SSK İstanbul Hospital II.nd Orthopaedics and Traumatology Clinics. Average follow-up period was ı5 months (between 4 to 30 months) and the latest examination were performed in January ı994. Clinical assessment was according to Demerit system. The results were evaluated as exelleent in 14 patients (59%), good in 6 patients (25%), fair in 3 Patients (12%), and poor in ı patient (4%) Logic for treatment of distal radius fractures by external fixation methods is to reduce risk of mal union, to prevent progression of joint rigidity, and not to cause development of carpal tunnel syndrome (Agee). The results we obtained from this study showed that for Frykman Type III to Type VIII fractures with inadequate immobilisation after reduction and fıxation by closed methods, external fixation, in the light of ligamentotaxis principles, is a good choice.