title: External fixation versus "pi" plate for distal radius fractures.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Fractures of the distal radius are among the most common fractures in orthopedic practice. The purpose of our study was to explore the advantages and disadvantages of two methods of treatment for this type of fracture.
  
  
  METHODS
  One hundred thirteen fractures of the distal radius have been operated; 49 fractures were treated with an external fixator and 64 fractures by internal fixation using a "pi" plate. The mean follow-up was 12 months. Clinical evaluation was performed using the modified Gartland and Werley's Functional Scoring System. Radiographic evaluation was performed using the modified Lidstrom Radiographic Scoring System.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Clinical results were similar between the two groups of patients (p = 0.46). Radiographic parameters were superior in the group of patients treated with open reduction and internal fixation (p = 0.028).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Final functional results are comparable between external fixation and dorsal "pi" plating.
authors.affiliation: Trauma & Orthopaedics, Livadia General Hospital, Athens. kkateros@hotmail.com
authors.forename: Konstantinos
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Kateros
authors.forename: George
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Macheras
authors.forename: Spyros P
authors.initials: SP
authors.lastname: Galanakos
authors.forename: Ioannis
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Sofianos
authors.forename: Ioannis
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Papakostas
authors.forename: Stamatios A
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Papadakis
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001860:Bone Plates; D005260:Female; D005592:Fracture Fixation; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011885:Radius Fractures / Q000601:surgery*