[Therapy of hand joint fractures using the external fixator. Experiences - results]

In the treatment of multi-fragment fractures of the base of the radius plate osteosynthesis using the small-fragment instrument set is preferred to conservative treatment due to the superior results achieved. However, one still cannot dispense with an additional immobilization of the fracture in a plaster cast. The extension of intra-articular comminuted fractures of the base of the radius is a technically relatively simple procedure and does not require a supporting plaster cast. In this paper we report the results of the treatment of twenty-seven wrist-fracture patients who were treated by external fixator. We also describe the indications and operative techniques. The results are reported by functional and radiological findings. For a great number of cases the results were quite good. We can highly recommend this procedure in the treatment of wrist injuries due to the simplicity of the operative technique employed and minimal follow-up treatment needed in conjunction with the good results achieved.