Comminuted intra-articular fractures of the distal end of the radius treated with the Hoffmann external fixator

In 1985 we began a prospective study of the use of external fixation in the treatment of intra-articular comminuted fractures of the distal end of the radius. A total of 30 patients have been treated by this method, representing 1.3% of the total number of patients treated in the Emergency Unit for a fracture of the distal epiphysis of the radius. The use of external fixation in instable fractures of the distal end of the radius improves the anatomic results. These correlate closely with the overall functional results obtained, which were excellent or good in 82.1% of cases, according to the rating system of Gartland and Werley. The main indications are fractures with a high degree of comminution, displacement, and articular affectation (unstable fractures) in young patients, corresponding to Frykman grades VII and VIII.