Biju Ravindran1, Y. Sivaprasad2, B. L. S. Kumar Babu3, G. Satyanarayana Raju4
INTRODUCTION: We studied the clinical and functional outcome of distal radius fractures managed by ligamentotaxis and/or percutaneous pinning versus open reduction & internal fixation by buttress plates.
METHODS: This prospective study was conducted during Aug 2012 to October 2014. All skeletally matured patients were having both Intra articular and extra articular Closed Distal Radius fractures were studied. Treatment was done either external fixator supplemented with k wires or internal fixation with plate and screws. The radiographic evaluation included radial length, palmar tilt, any evidence of jointincongruity and radio ulnar joint instability and arthritis. The assessments that were made includes Subjective assessment – pain, numbness, weakness of hand, stiffness.
OBJECTIVE: Range of motion measured by hand held goniometer, Measurement of grip strength done by commercially available hand dynamometer. Unaffected hand served as control.
RESULTS: Male patients (85.46%) outnumbered female patients (14.54%) in incidence. The incidence of distal radius fractures was common between the ages of 20 to 40 years. Left sided fractures were more common (52.73%). Type III was most common type of fracture (Frykman’s Classification), accounting for 29% of all fractures.25 cases were treated by external fixation and 30 cases were treated by open reduction and buttress plating. The results were evaluated by using STEWART ET AL anatomical and functional scoring system. The average range of movement at the knee joint was Dorsiflexion 70*, Palmar Flexion 65*, Ulnar Deviation 25*, Radial Deviation 15*, Supination 70*, Pronation 65*. Most common early complication was pin tract infection. Based on the stewar et al scoring, 4(7.27%) had excellent, 43(78.18%) had good, 7(12.72%) had fair, 1(1.81%) had poor results.
CONCLUSION: We observed that both fixations were equally same, there is no superiority with over the other. The incidence of complications in internal fixation (10%) is fewer compared to external fixation (24%) in this study.
