Percutaneous Kirschner wire stabilisation following closed reduction of Colles' fractures

32 consecutive unstable Colles' fractures were treated by closed reduction and percutaneous Kirschner wire stabilisation through the radial styloid, followed by a below-elbow cast. Radiological assessment was made at five stages of treatment: at the time of the fracture, immediately after operation, after two weeks, after six weeks and a final review at an average period of 15.9 months. Functional assessment was made at the final review. Only three fractures developed secondary displacement, which was due to the wrong placement of the Kirschner wire. There were no complications.