SHORT TERM FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF CLOSED REDUCTION AND FIXATION OF COLLES FRACTURE USING MODIFIED-JOSHIS EXTERNAL STABALIZATION SYSTEM - A PROSPECTIVE STUDY

Colles fracture is the most common fracture seen in adult population. It is never an isolated fracture of the distal radius, but is associated with fracture of ulna styloid which may be displaced or undisplaced instability of the distal radio-ulnar joint complex and may be associated with injury to triangular fibro cartilaginous complex. The aim of study was to determine functional outcome of management of closed reduction and fixation of comminuted colles fracture using a rigid and stable modified-Joshis External Stabalisation System as soon as possible. In our study we have tried to bring associated soft tissue and bony injuries around the wrist joint as a highlighter and focused on fixation and restoration of anatomy to near normal with fixation of all the above mentioned injuries without exposing the joint, and as an immediate and definative management. Out of a total of 30 patients included, 26 patients had an excellent outcome as measured using quick-disability arm shoulder hand score and modified-mayo wrist scoring system. One patient had a superficial pin tract infection and was managed with oral antibiotics. The patients were able to resume the activities of daily living by end of eight weeks. It can be concluded that this method can be employed in immediate and definative management of comminuted colles fractures as it leads to a better functional outcome, lesser hospital stay, early mobilization of the joint, lesser exposure to radiation, avoids joint exposure, has a low learning curve, early resumption of activities of daily living and avoids re-surgery at a later date for implant removal.