A Case Series of Functional and Radiological Outcome of Comminuted Distal Radius Fractures Treated with Bridging External Fixator with Optional Percutaneous K-wires
Introduction: Comminuted intra-articular distal radius fractures are complex injuries often resulting from high-energy trauma, requiring precise reduction and stable fixation. Spanning external fixation, with optional K-wire augmentation, has emerged as a minimally invasive technique offering reliab...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Indian Orthopaedic Research Group
2025-08-01
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| Series: | Journal of Orthopaedic Case Reports |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://jocr.co.in/wp/2025/08/01/a-case-series-of-functional-and-radiological-outcome-of-comminuted-distal-radius-fractures-treated-with-bridging-external-fixator-with-optional-percutaneous-k-wires/ |
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| Summary: | Introduction:
Comminuted intra-articular distal radius fractures are complex injuries often resulting from high-energy trauma, requiring precise reduction and stable fixation. Spanning external fixation, with optional K-wire augmentation, has emerged as a minimally invasive technique offering reliable stabilization through ligamentotaxis while reducing operative time, blood loss, and infection risks.
Case Series:
This case series evaluated patients with AO Type C3 distal radius fractures treated using spanning external fixators with optional K-wire supplementation. Functional outcomes were assessed using the disabilities of arm, shoulder, and hand score, and radiological outcomes were evaluated using the Sarmiento radiological score over a 1-year follow-up period. Almost all patients achieved excellent results on both scoring systems, with minimal complications and no significant functional limitations reported.
Conclusion:
Spanning external fixation, with or without K-wire support, is an effective alternative to open reduction methods for complex intra-articular distal radius fractures. It offers the advantages of simplicity, reduced operative duration, less blood loss, and a lower risk of infection, making it a reliable option for managing these challenging injuries. |
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| ISSN: | 2250-0685 2321-3817 |