[External fixation with motion capacity and radius fractures. Methods and results]

Both the radiocarpal and distal radioulnar joints are often affected in"distal radius fractures". The incidence of this injury increases markedly among women over the age of 40. Bearing in mind the wide variety of distal radius fractures, a fixation system should be used which permits trans- and extra-articular application and subsequent reduction by means of distraction, as well as wrist mobilization. It is important that both reduction and position of the carpal bones can be checked. The possibility of extra-articular (radioradial) fixation should always be considered. AO group A2 and A3 fractures with sufficiently large fragments are suitable for this procedure. In other cases, transarticular application is advised. Complementary measures are justified in the case where two or more cortices in AP and lateral X-rays are destroyed. Adequate implants are also used to stabilize the articular surface. Large bone defects should be filled with corticocancellous material.