Open reduction and internal fixation of comminuted, intraarticular fractures of the distal radius

Comminuted intraarticular fractures of the distal radius present a difficult problem in management. It is well established that unreduced significant articular incongruency will result in early degenerative osteoarthritis. The technical demands of, and the results to be expected from, formal open reduction and internal fixation of these comminuted articular fractures have not been addressed in the current literature. From 1981 to 1986, 20 patients were treated by open reduction after failure of closed means. Seventeen patients were personally reviewed at an average follow-up of 3.25 years. The results indicate that the procedures are technically demanding and have high early (15%) and late (35%) complication rates. This gives an overall complication rate of 50%, including the need for further operative procedures. However, patient satisfaction is very high, most patients (89%) returning to previous occupations. Function and radiographic results are excellent. Articular congruency was restored in 88%.