title: An alternative method of treating comminuted intra-articular fractures of the distal radius.
abstract: Comminuted intra-articular fractures of the distal radius will inevitably end in poor results if inadequately treated. We recommend an external fixator by two proximal and one distal Steinmann pins incorporated into a short plaster of Paris cast. This distraction method is easy, does not need special instrumentation, and is very cost-effective. Our method differs from previous methods in its simplicity and predictably good results if the recommended technique is followed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Hand and Microsurgery, Medical University of Southern Africa, Pretoria.
authors.forename: U
authors.initials: U
authors.lastname: Mennen
authors.forename: F J
authors.initials: FJ
authors.lastname: Labuschagne
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001858:Bone Nails; D002370:Casts, Surgical; D016267:External Fixators; D005260:Female; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011885:Radius Fractures / Q000601:surgery*; D014143:Traction