The operative treatment of intraarticular fractures of the distal radius

Surgical management of 13 complex intraarticular (pilon) fractures of the distal radius was remarkably effective. Most of the fractures were the result of high-energy impact, with associated soft-tissue trauma in seven cases. The preoperative planning, fracture classification, surgical tactics, and results are presented in detail. Only three patients had any residual functional problems. Follow-up motion showed wrist dorsiflexion/palmar flexion to be 74% of the opposite side, and grip strength was 76% of the opposite side. Twelve of the 13 patients showed no roentgenographic evidence of posttraumatic arthritis at an average follow-up period of 2.5 years.