title: External fixation for intra-articular fractures of the distal radius.
abstract: In a prospective study of 132 patients with an average age of 35 years, unstable intra-articular fractures of the distal radius were treated by external fixator. Only 15 cases required limited open reduction. Follow-up was for a mean of 42 months. There were few complications and 83% of patients had good or excellent results. There was a statistically significant correlation between the severity of the fracture and the clinical outcome, irrespective of radiological restoration. Articular and soft-tissue damage following violent compressive forces may lead to a degree of functional impairment.
authors.affiliation: Hillbrow Hospital, Johannesburg, Republic of South Africa.
authors.forename: I
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Jakim
authors.forename: H S
authors.initials: HS
authors.lastname: Pieterse
authors.forename: M B
authors.initials: MB
authors.lastname: Sweet
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D016267:External Fixators; D005260:Female; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D011885:Radius Fractures / Q000150:complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D014954:Wrist Injuries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*