Computer-Assisted Circular External Fixator in the Treatment of Wrist and Forearm Deformities: Functional and...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Wrist and forearm deformities, often congenital or post-traumatic, cause pain, limited motion, and reduced quality of life.
• Traditional acute correction methods like osteotomy carry risks of complications such as nerve damage and malunion.
• Circular external fixators offer a safer alternative, enabling gradual correction and lengthening, with computer assistance enhancing precision.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of computer-assisted circular external fixators (Ca-CEF) in treating wrist and forearm deformities.
• To assess functional and radiological outcomes following Ca-CEF treatment.
• To analyze the complication rates associated with Ca-CEF in this patient cohort.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 14 patients with wrist or forearm deformities treated with Ca-CEF between 2010 and 2020.
• Evaluation of preoperative and postoperative demographic, radiographic, and functional data, including range of motion, pain scores (VAS), upper extremity function (DASH, Mayo Wrist Score), and grip strength.
• Statistical analysis to compare pre- and post-treatment measurements and assess complication incidence.

Main Results:

• All 14 patients achieved planned anatomical correction with Ca-CEF.
• Statistically significant improvements were observed in forearm supination (7.8°), grip strength (6.17 kg), VAS scores (-3.07), DASH scores (-21 points), and Mayo Wrist Scores (22.14 points).
• No major complications were reported, indicating a high safety profile for Ca-CEF.

Conclusions:

• Computer-assisted circular external fixators (Ca-CEF) are a safe and effective treatment for wrist and forearm deformities.
• Ca-CEF provides significant functional and radiological improvements, enhancing patient quality of life.
• This technique is a valuable option for managing complex upper extremity deformities due to its precision and low complication rate.