Effectiveness of external fixator combined with T-plate internal fixation for the treatment of comminuted distal radius fractures.

Abstract

This study compared the efficacy between external fixator combined with palmar T-plate internal fixation and simple plate internal fixation for the treatment of comminuted distal radius fractures. A total of 61 patients classified as type C according to the AO/ASIF classification underwent surgery for comminuted distal radius fractures. There were 54 and 7 cases of closed and open fractures, respectively. Moreover, 19 patients received an external fixator combined with T-plate internal fixation, and 42 received simple plate internal fixation. All patients were treated successfully during 12-month postoperative follow-up. The follow-up results show that the palmar flexion and dorsiflexion of the wrist, radial height, and palmar angle were significantly better in those treated with the external fixator combined with T-plate compared to those treated with the simple plate only (P < 0.05); however, there were no significant differences in radial-ulnar deviation, wrist range of motion, or wrist function score between groups (P > 0.05). Hence, the effectiveness of external fixator combined with T-plate internal fixation for the treatment of comminuted distal radius fractures was satisfactory. Patients sufficiently recovered wrist, forearm, and hand function. In conclusion, compared to the simple T-plate, the external fixator combined with T-plate internal fixation can reduce the possibility of the postoperative re-shifting of broken bones and keep the distraction of fractures to maintain radial height and prevent radial shortening.

• Authors: L R Han, C X Jin, J Yan, S Z Han, X B He, X F Yang
• Journal: Genetics and molecular research : GMR (Genet Mol Res) Vol. 14 Issue 1 Pg. 2912-9 (Mar 31 2015) ISSN: 1676-5680 [Electronic] Brazil
• PMID: 25867441 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Topics

• Adult
• Aged
• External Fixators
• Female
• Follow-Up Studies
• Fracture Fixation (instrumentation, methods)
• Fractures, Comminuted (physiopathology, surgery)
• Humans
• Internal Fixators
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Radius Fractures (physiopathology, surgery)
• Range of Motion, Articular
• Recovery of Function
• Time Factors
• Treatment Outcome