External fixation of distal radial fractures: four compared with five pins: a randomized prospective study.
BACKGROUND
The purpose of this study of distal radial fractures was to compare the radiographic and clinical results after use of a standard four-pin external fixator with those after use of a five-pin fixator with the fifth pin stabilizing the distal radial articular fragment.


METHODS
In an open prospective trial, fifty patients with an unstable distal radial fracture were randomized for treatment with closed reduction and either a standard small Association for the Study of Internal Fixation (ASIF) four-pin fixator (twenty-five patients) or a five-pin external fixator (twenty-five patients). The fixators were removed at nine weeks, and all patients were assessed radiographically and clinically at six months.


RESULTS
Follow-up radiographs demonstrated significantly less loss of alignment and length with the five-pin external fixator. Pin site infections were more prevalent with the four-pin fixator. The range of motion of the wrist and forearm, the grip strength, and the Lidstrom functional ratings at six months were all significantly better after use of the five-pin fixator.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of a five-pin external fixator, with the fifth pin stabilizing the distal radial articular fragment, yields better radiographic and functional results than does a four-pin fixator.
Werber
K-D
KD
Chirurgische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany. werber@nt1.chir.med.tu-muenchen.de
Raeder
F
F
Brauer
R B
RB
Weiss
S
S
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001858:Bone Nails; D016267:External Fixators; D005260:Female; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011859:Radiography; D011885:Radius Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome