title: [External fixator by Mitkovic in the treatment of comminuted intraarticular fractures of the distal radius].
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Comminuted intraarticular fractures of the distal radius metaphysis are a major challenge for orthopedic surgeons. The aim of this study was to present results of the survey on treatment of these fractures using an external fixator.
  
  
  METHODS
  73 patients (30 females and 43 males) with closed comminuted intraarticular fractures of the distal radius, type C AO/ASIF (based on radiography at the moment of injury) were treated by a Mitkovic external fixator and followed-up for at least 2 years. An external fixator and Kirschner wires were used in 43 patients. An external fixator without Kirschner wires was used in 30 patients.
  
  
  RESULTS
  At the end of treatment, functional results and outcomes were excellent in 39 (53.4%), good in 19 (26%), fair in 10 (13.7%), and poor in 5 (6.8%) patients according to Jakim score. Lesser degree of limitation of the movement of the wrist joint was established in 19 patients (26%). Joint incongruity of the distal radius, 0-2 mm, was observed in 22 patients (30%) and over 2 mm in 3 patients. A minimal degree of posttraumatic osteoarthrosis was recorded in 21 patients (28.7%) and moderate ostheoarthrosis in 5 patients (6.8%).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The anatomic reduction of the articular surfaces and healing of the fracture in a proper functional position are prerequisites for adequate function of the wrist and hand. It appears that an external fixator, with or without Kirschner wires, can be a method of choice in treatment of these complex articular fractures.
authors.affiliation: Ortopedsko-traumatoloska klinika, Klinicki centar, Nis. ivanmicic@ptt.yu
authors.forename: Ivan
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Micić
authors.forename: Milorad
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Mitković
authors.forename: Desimir
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Mladenović
authors.forename: Sasa
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Karalejić
authors.forename: Sasa
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Milenković
authors.forename: Dorde
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Gajdobranski
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D016267:External Fixators; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000379:methods; D018460:Fractures, Comminuted / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011885:Radius Fractures / Q000601:surgery*; D014954:Wrist Injuries / Q000601:surgery*