Treatment of unstable distal radius fractures with non-bridginig external fixation

Objective: In this study, we present functional and radiological results for patients treated for distal radius fractures with a non-bridging external (mini tube) fixator, which allows early movement. Material and Method: A total of 27 patients (14 female and 13 male) with 29 distal radius fractures were included in the study. The mean age was 56.3 years (range: 23-83 years). According to the AO/ASIF classification, three fractures were of type A, and 26 fractures were of the unstable type C. All the fractures were treated with close reduction and fixed with non-bridging external fixation. The radiological results were evaluated according to Stewart's radiological-anatomical scoring system. The patients' functional levels were evaluated according to the DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) questionnaire, the MAYO Modified Wrist Score, and Stewart's modification of the Gartland-Werley scoring system. The mean follow-up time was 20.7 months (range: 12-38 months). Results: According to Stewart's radiological-anatomical scoring system, out of 29 involved extremities in 27 patients, 7 (24.13%) wrists were excellent, 19 (65.51%) were good, and 3 (10.34%) were fair. No patient was graded as bad. According to Stewart's functional scoring system, out of 29 extremities, 6 (20.6%) were excellent, 14 (48.2%) were good, and 7 were (24.1%) fair, but 2 patients (6.8%) were bad. Conclusion: Non-bridging external fixation is an easy to apply and effective method of treatment for closed reducible distal radius fractures, which allows early motion.