Treatment of unstable extra-articular distal radius fractures by modified intrafocal Kapandji method

The authors prospectively assess the results of surgically treated, unstable extra-articular distal radius fractures from 29 patients with good bone quality. Mean age was 49 years, ranging from 22 to 69 years; the female gender was the most frequently affected (58.6% of the cases). Surgical fixation was indicated for fractures presenting an angulation above 20 degrees , marked dorsal comminution, and radius shortening in excess of 10 mm on initial x-rays (anteroposterior and lateral views). The Kapandji technique, with intrafocal, nonthreaded Kirschner wires, was employed. Clinical data assessed anatomic aspects according to Scheck, functional aspect after Gartland and Werley, strength by Scheck's methods, and esthetic by Frykman's criteria. Functional assessment, according to Gartland and Werley, revealed 72.1% of excellent and good results at 3 months; 89.7% at 6 months; and 96.6% at 12 months. Immediate postoperative reduction was not maintained at the final follow-up at 12 months; however, that loss was not severe, and the anatomic outcome was good and excellent in 96.6% of the cases. Six patients presented complications. Four patients presented reflex sympathetic dystrophy; 1 patient had a superficial Kirschner wire infection, and another patient had radial nerve superficial branch paresthesia. The employed technique showed to be effective in the treatment of unstable, extra-articular fractures of the distal radius. It is easy to learn and to perform. The device employed has a low cost and is widely available in operation rooms.