External fixator and K wire- A versatile tool in distal end radius fractures

Introduction: Distal end of the radius fractures are common injuries and are the commonest bony injury around the wrist. The logical treatment need to be planned based on specific fracture configuration, the extent of displacement, degree of articular disruption, stability and many other factors. The present study is intended to assess results of closed reduction, K wiring and external fixator in Fractures of Lower end Radius/ulna in 40 patients classified according to Frykman's classification. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study of 40 cases of distal end radius fractures selected randomly over a period one year from March 2016 to March 2017. Observation and Results: Out of 40 patients in the study most of them were male with the mean age of patients being 44.72.Injury was commonly due to fall on out stretched hand with no associated injuries signifying it is caused by low energy trauma. Most of the patients were of Frykman type III and IV. The average period for intermittent mobilization is between 6 to 7 weeks. 90% patients have 10‐22 degrees of range of radial inclination. Most patients developed a good range of movement post-op. Few complications were reported with pin tract infection being present in 5% cases. Conclusion: We have studied 40 patients of distal end radial fracture treated with external fixator and K wires. It is simple and inexpensive implant. Technique is less demanding for surgery. It causes minimal soft tissue interference. Elbow and fingers can be mobilized immediate post operatively. It maintains reduction and provides stability to fracture fixation. Period of immobilization was short. Complication rates are comparatively low in our study. Most patients had excellent to good results. Its ease of use and successful results make external fixator and K wire versatile tool for treatment of these fractures.