Treatment of distal radius fracture by T-shaped plate internal fixation combined with external fixation

Objective To summarize our experience in treatment of distal radius fracture by T-shaped plate internal fixation combined with external fixation.Methods Nine cases of unstable fracture of distal radius were included.There were two cases of type B and seven cases of type C according to AO classification.They were all treated by T-shaped plate fixation combined with external fixation.Autogeneic bone grafting was applied in eight patients.All the nine cases were followed up to evaluate their wrist joint range of active motion and radiographic parameters including palmar tilt,dorsal tilt,radial inclination,radial length and ulnar variance.Results All the patients were followed up for 6 to 1 2 months postoperatively(mean eight months).Anatomical reduction was achieved in all the cases.Delayed union or non-union was not observed.According to the rating scale of Gartland and Werley,eight cases got excellent results and one case good results.By the time of last follow-up,no such complications as pin hole infection,loosening of internal fixation,loss of reduction,tendon rupture or irritation occurred.Conclusion T-shaped plate fixation combined with exter nal fixation is reliable and effective in treatment of unstable fracture of distal radius.