Grading of unstable distal radius fractures and its evaluation using JESS fixation

Introduction: Unstable distal end radius fractures are a common entity with various treatment options. The degree of instability varies with each fracture and it has a bearing on the treatment outcome. We are trying to grade the instability and its use in predicting treatment outcome. Materials and Method: 48 adult patients with unstable distal radius fractures were classified into three grades according to our instability grading. All were treated with Joshi's external stabilizing system and their anatomical and functional results were analyzed at one year. Result: 91% had excellent or good functional results and there were statistically significant differences in functional outcome among the three grades. Conclusion: The proposed grading system is simple and will help to predict functional out come and duration of JESS fixation in unstable distal radius fractures.