Treatment of Fractures of Distal End of Radius Using Ligamentotaxis: A Case Series

Introduction: Intra/juxta-articular fractures of distal radius are still challenging problem despite the varieties of modalities of treatment options. We report the result of a prospective study of three hundred fifty patients, who were treated by close reduction and simple single bar Uniplaner external fixator. Methodology: In a prospective controlled study, 350 cases of distal end radius fractures with / without intra-articular extension were treated with uniplanar static type of external fixation using the principle of ligamentotaxis and augmentation by K-wires. The age group of the patients is 18 to 70 years, external fixator was applied for duration of 6 to 8 weeks and cases were followed up for an average of 6 to 10 months post operatively. Results: Assessed as per Demerit point system of Gartland and Werley (modified by Sarmiento 1975) for functional results and criteria for anatomical results by Sarmiento (1975) at the end of 6-8 months of follow up. Excellent anatomical result was seen in around 37 % patients, good results seen in 46 % patients, fair results are seen in around 15 % patients with poor results in around 2 % patients. Conclusion: Thus we conclude that ligamentotaxis is an excellent method for the management of comminuted intra/juxta articular fractures. It not only obviates the need of ORIF and/or POP cast but also gives better functional results. It is very useful in compound comminuted fractures around joints where other methods are contraindicated.